New Delhi: A Pakistani fan has gone viral for singing the Indian national anthem during the recently concluded Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 final between India and South Africa. India lifted their maiden World Cup trophy after beating the Proteas by 52 runs in the summit clash at the DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai last week.
It was a historic win for the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side, who brought an end to India’s long-standing ICC trophy drought. A Pakistani fan, Arshad Muhammad Hanif, shared a clip on Instagram, where he can be seen singing the Indian national anthem with his little daughter to support the Indian team during the final.
Hanif stood up to join the Indian team in singing their national anthem ahead of the start of the final. In the video, he can be seen wearing a Pakistan jersey while singing the Indian national anthem with his daughter. The video has gone viral on social media, with many highlighting cricket’s ability to unite people across borders.
Cricket fans from both countries have also lauded Hanif for his touching gesture for the Indian team, praising his love for the game. Despite recent tensions between the two countries, Hanif’s video is proof that cricket has the power to dissolve boundaries and unite people across borders.
Watch Pakistani fan sings Indian national anthem to support India:
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While they have been receiving support from even across the border, the Indian women’s team stars have become the toast of the nation after lifting their maiden World Cup trophy at home. From Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the legendary Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli, several notable celebrities have hailed Harmanpreet & Co. for their historic achievement.
India beat South Africa to script history
India defeated South Africa comprehensively by 52 runs in the final to lift their maiden ODI World Cup title. The historic triumph was a watershed moment for women’s cricket in India and is expected to serve as an inspiration to future generations. India rode on all-round heroics from Shafali Verma and Deepti Sharma in the final to outclass the Proteas and clinch the title.
Shafali slammed a brilliant 87-run knock, while Deepti scored a gritty half-century to help India post a strong total of 298 runs on the board in the final at the DY Patil Stadium. In reply, South Africa were skittled out for 246 runs after Deppti bagged a fifer and Shafali picked up two crucial wickets. Shafali was awarded the Player of the Match for her impactful performance in the high-pressure clash.