Most Heated Moments: 5 instances when crowd mocked players on the field

2. Eden crowd goes berserk over Shoaib Akhtar in 1999 (Ind vs Pak Test match)

The India-Pakistan rivalry is considered the best contest in the sport. In 71 years of cricket rivalry between both nations, players have delivered several great moments for fans to cheer about. In return, supporters have also showered love on players, in the form of appreciation. However, in 1999, a shameful incident happened that still embarrasses Indian fans. 

In February 1999, the first game of the Asian Championship 1998-99 between India and Pakistan was played at iconic Eden Gardens. Riding on Saeed Anwar’s extraordinary knock of 188 in the second innings, the visitors tasked the hosts to chase 279 to win the game. Pursuing the total, India got a decent start with the help of opening batters Sadagopan Ramesh and VVS Laxman’s confident innings of 40 and 67 respectively.

After the fall of both openers, Sachin Tendulkar also got dismissed on Wasim Akram’s delivery after a direct run-out from Nadeem Khan. Tendulkar, who was trying to steal the third run, got obstructed as he collided with Shoaib Akhtar, which became the reason for his dismissal.

Tendulkar’s run-out caused chaos at the stadium as India fans refused to stay calm and showcased their anger by disrupting the game. Noting the seriousness of the situation, stadium authorities emptied the stadium and the match resumed after an hour with a very few spectators remaining. Following the controversy, Wasim Akram and his men handed a 46-run defeat to the Indian side.