Bangladesh's 'Tiger Robi' beaten by Indians or is he an 'attention seeker'? Netizens from both countries divided over the fan
While Robi stated that Indian spectators physically assaulted him, however, many Indian fans on X (formerly known as Twitter) stated he is a known "attention seeker".
Bangladesh's 'Tiger Robi'
While rain has already disrupted the 2nd Test match between India and Bangladesh at Green Park Stadium in Kanpur, another unfortunate incident occurred on Friday. A superfan of the visitors, known as 'Tiger Robi,' allegedly claimed that local fans beat him at the stadium. Robi stated that Indian spectators physically assaulted him, however, many Indian fans on X (formerly known as Twitter) stated he is a known "attention seeker". The incident overshadowed the ongoing match, drawing attention from fans, media, and authorities.
Among the sea of Indian supporters, Tiger Robi, dressed in the colours of Bangladesh, proudly waved his nation's flag from the C Block balcony, chanting in support of his team. However, his enthusiasm allegedly led to a clash with local spectators during the first session. Robi claimed that the altercation escalated during lunch when a group of Indian fans attacked him. "They hit me on my back and lower abdomen. I couldn't breathe," Robi said before security personnel rushed him to a nearby hospital for treatment.
While Robi's allegations are serious, police officials at the venue offered a different version of events. "One of our officers found him gasping for breath near the C Block entrance. He was struggling to speak. It appears to be a case of dehydration, but we are waiting for the doctor's report," a police source stated. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage to verify Robi's claims, and an investigation is underway.
The incident quickly sparked heated debate online, with videos and photos circulating across social media. While many Bangladeshi fans expressed outrage, some Indian fans questioned Robi's claims. According to several Indian fans, Robi was heard abusing Mohammed Siraj and also mentioned that during the Chennai Test, he was caught doing a Facebook live from the stands and had claimed locals abused him as he did not understand Tamil.
About the IND vs BAN clash:
India won the toss and chose to bowl first under overcast conditions, ideal for seamers. Indian pacer Akash Deep made an immediate impact, removing both of Bangladesh's openers, Zakir Hasan and Shadman Islam, in the opening session.
Hasan struggled to get going, playing 23 dot balls before edging a delivery to Yashasvi Jaiswal at slip, putting Bangladesh on the back foot early. Shadman Islam showed some resilience with a composed 24 but was trapped LBW by Deep, despite opting for a review. By lunch, Bangladesh were at 74 for two, with captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mominul Haque trying to stabilize the innings.
Post that, Shanto put up a fight and his gritty 28* saw him play a reverse sweep off Ravichandran Ashwin as well. Mominul Haque, though was more cautious in his approach, offering vital support. As the session progressed, Bangladesh managed to steady the ship and ended the day with 107 for 3. Day 2 did not begin on time due to rain.