In a shocking turn of events, the India national anthem, ‘Jana Gana Mana,’ was mistakenly played at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore before the highly anticipated match between Australia and England in ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This blunder left both teams and spectators stunned, as it is customary for national anthems to be played before each game. The incident highlights the complexities and tensions surrounding international cricket tournaments, especially when they involve countries with strained relations like India and Pakistan.
The moment of blunder with Australia’s national anthem
The mix-up occurred when England’s ‘God Save The King’ was followed by an unexpected rendition of India’s national anthem instead of Australia’s ‘Advance Australia Fair.’ The mistake was quickly rectified after two seconds, but not before it sparked widespread confusion among players and fans alike. Australian cricketers were visibly perplexed, exchanging puzzled glances as they tried to make sense of what was happening.
This incident took place during a tournament where India have refused to play any matches in Pakistan due to security concerns. Consequently, all Indian matches are being held in Dubai. The upcoming match between arch-rivals India and Pakistan on February 23 will also take place in Dubai. Given these circumstances, such a mistake might have been seen as embarrassing for Pakistan or simply an unfortunate error.
Here’s the video:
Indian national anthem in #ENGvsAUS match😂
yeh yeh porki bolte hai hamara andian mazaak kyu udaate hai…#ChampionsTrophy2025 pic.twitter.com/KgSjOkdnLt— sachin gurjar (@SachinGurj91435) February 22, 2025
Also READ: In pics: Meet the wives and girlfriends of Australia cricketers | Champions Trophy 2025
Champions Trophy filled with controversies
The Champions Trophy has been marred by several controversies even before its commencement. There were debates over whether Pakistan’s name should appear on Indian jerseys during matches against other teams not involving them directly. Additionally, there was an issue with broadcast logos omitting Pakistan’s name during live coverage of certain games.
The PCB expressed dissatisfaction with ICC over these issues and received assurances that corrections would be made moving forward. However, this latest gaffe involving national anthems raises questions about organizational preparedness and attention to detail at major events.
Australia vs England: Beyond the gaffe
Despite this initial hiccup, the actual match proceeded smoothly once order was restored. Steve Smith led his Australian team into action after winning the toss against England. Notably, Alex Carey performed well for Australia despite Josh Inglis also being part of their lineup as another wicketkeeper-batter option in the XI today.
Also READ: In Pics: Meet the wives and girlfriends of England cricketers | Champions Trophy 2025
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