Indian fans face racist ‘Where’s your visa’ chants at MCG during India-Australia Test
India and Australia are currently battling it out at the Sydney Cricket Ground for the fifth Test of the Border Gavaskar Trophy. However, the fourth India-Australia Test series has been overshadowed by a worrying incident of racism at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). A viral video has emerged showing Australian fans shouting abuse at Indian fans during the Boxing Day Test last month, sparking outrage on social media.
In the video, Australian fans can be heard shouting “Where’s your visa?” at Indian spectators—a deeply offensive remark that reignited the conversation about racism in cricket stadiums. The video, originally recorded during the Melbourne Test, resurfaced during the series finale in Sydney, bringing the issue back into the spotlight.
Racist chants provoke anger
The video has drawn widespread condemnation from cricket fans and former players. Many called out unacceptable behavior, demanding stricter actions from Cvrček Australia and stadium authorities to curb racism at matches.
This incident is reminiscent of previous episodes of racial abuse faced by Indian players and fans in Australia. In the Border-Gavaskar 2021 series, Indian pacers Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah they were subjected to racist taunts from the Sydney crowd.
Fans took to social media to express their disappointment, with many labeling the chants “pure racism”.
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Indian pitch battle in Sydney
Despite the off-field controversies, the fifth Test in Sydney remains tied. Rishabh Pant lit up Day 2 with a stunning counter-attack, smashing the second-fastest half-century for India in test cricket.
Pant reached his fifty off just 29 balls, his explosive knock helping India build a crucial 145-run lead. His innings included several big hits, with the wicketkeeper-batsman showing no fear from Australia’s fearsome bowling attack.
Pant’s brilliant knock ended on 61 off 33 balls when he Pat Cummins pulled him out. However, it was Scott Boland who did the most damage to the Indian batting line-up, finishing with figures of 4-42.
At stumps on Day 2, India were 141/6, s Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar holding the fort. The visitors are looking to set a competitive target on the tricky SCG pitch.
Bumrah’s uncertain participation
There is still uncertainty over whether the stand-in captain will Jasprit Bumrah will bowl in Australia’s second innings. Bumrah left the field for a scan on the second day after appearing to struggle with discomfort.
If Bumrah remains unavailable, the Indian bowling unit will rely heavily on Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna defend the target.
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