Pak cricketer Hassan Ali during the flag-lowering ceremony at Attari-Wagah border
Pakistani cricketer Hassan Ali’s signature wicket-taking gesture at the Attari-Wagah border during the traditional flag-lowering ceremony is likely to cause another India-Pakistan rift. The cricketer's behaviour has not gone down well with India’s Border Security Force (BSF), which has decided to lodge a formal protest with the Pakistani Rangers.
In a video that has now gone viral, Ali, known for his on-field eccentric celebrations, can be seen walking up to the Pakistani soldier in the middle of the ceremony. He then imitates the Ranger, pats his thigh and raises his arm, before replicating his signature celebratory move, all the while gesturing to the Indian soldiers and spectators on the other side. A man, also in civilian clothes, walks up to Ali and takes him back.
The Pakistani Rangers are not seen objecting to the cricketer’s 40-second antics in the middle of the ceremony, which has to be performed only by soldiers.
Ali was part of the Pakistani cricket team which visited the Attari-Wagah border on Saturday to view the flag-lowering ceremony, considered to be the highlight of the day.
Civilians are from both sides throng the spectators’ gallery to view the event, which sees high emotions and loud slogan-chanting.
Watch video: Pak cricketer Hasan Ali challenges BSF jawans on Wagah border, video goes viral
