England Tests Controversy: Lancashire Expresses Regrets, Following Removal of Pakistan Supporter from Old Trafford
In the midst of the England-India Test match at Old Trafford, a spectator named Farooq Nazar was ejected from the stands after refusing to comply with requests to cover his Pakistan cricket shirt[1]. This incident, which occurred on July 26, 2025, has sparked public outcry and raised concerns about the handling of diverse supporters at cricket events[2].
Lancashire, the organisers of the event, have since issued an apology and conducted an internal investigation into the matter[2]. The investigation revealed that the club's approach was influenced by a previous incident of tension between Indian and Pakistani fans at the ground[1].
In a statement reported by ESPNcricinfo, Lancashire clarified that their team adopted a precautionary, safety-first approach in the incident. They stated that there was no intention to remove the individual simply for wearing a Pakistan cricket shirt. However, the club acknowledged the sensitivity around the incident and aimed to address the concerns raised about the handling of the fan's ejection while reaffirming their commitment to welcoming diverse supporters at their venue[2].
The details beyond the public apology and intent to prevent similar future occurrences have not been fully disclosed in the available sources. It is known that the club's stewards were able to de-escalate previous situations by asking individuals to put flags away[1]. In this instance, a Lancashire security guard was sent by "control" to ask Nazar to cover his shirt. However, Nazar declined the request, leading to his removal from the stadium[1].
Nazar, in response, posted a video of the incident on social media, further fuelling public debate about the incident[1]. It is worth noting that the bilateral relations between India and Pakistan have significantly worsened since the cross-border military conflict, which may have added to the sensitivity of the situation[1].
In light of the incident, Lancashire has announced that they will review their procedures for handling similar situations in the future[2]. The India Champions, who were playing in the World Championship of Legends, refused to play their Pakistani counterparts in two games of the tournament, and forfeited the semi-final[1]. These developments underscore the need for cricket organisations to ensure a welcoming and inclusive environment for all supporters, regardless of their nationality or team allegiance.
[1] ESPNcricinfo. (2025, July 27). Lancashire apologise for asking spectator to leave Old Trafford for not covering his Pakistan team t-shirt during the fourth India vs England Test. ESPNcricinfo. https://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/1278338.html
[2] The Guardian. (2025, July 27). Lancashire apologise for asking fan to leave Old Trafford for not covering Pakistan team t-shirt. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/jul/27/lancashire-apologise-for-asking-fan-to-leave-old-trafford-for-not-covering-pakistan-team-t-shirt
- Despite the precautionary approach taken by Lancashire during the England-India Test match, the ejection of Farooq Nazar for refusing to cover his Pakistan cricket shirt has led to public outcry and concerns about the handling of diverse supporters at cricket events.
- In an effort to prevent similar incidents in the future, Lancashire has announced that they will review their procedures for handling situations where supporters refuse to comply with requests related to sports attire, such as covering national team shirts.
