Virat Kohli recently spoke out about the stampede at Chinnaswamy Stadium that occurred during the Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) celebrations following their Indian Premier League (IPL) victory in June. Players Jitesh Sharma and Krunal Pandya have now also expressed their condolences for the people who died during the victory parade.
“As athletes, we are trained to move on from wins and losses and focus on the next. But, we will never be able to move on from June 4th, the day some of our own suffered. Our care for each other goes beyond the cricket field, and we will continue to stay united with the fans and families affected. They will forever be in our hearts,” Jitesh said in a message posted by the RCB X profile.
“RCB fans, your love gave us strength, your belief lifted us in every moment. You are the heartbeat of this team. That a night of celebration turned into sorrow for some of you breaks our hearts. To every family grieving, know that we carry you in our thoughts and in our spirit. We play for you. We stand with you. You’ll be part of this family – today, and always,” Pandya said as per the RCB handle.
Also Read - 'Reaching IPL final no reason for India captaincy': Sandeep Sharma on Shreyas Iyer debate
Both RCB captain Rajat Patidar and talisman Kohli had spoken out about the tragedy earlier this week.
“Nothing in life really prepares you for a heartbreak like June 4th,” Kohli said in the note. “What should’ve been the happiest moment in our franchise’s history… turned into something tragic. I’ve been thinking of and praying for the families of those we lost… and for our fans who were injured. Your loss is part of our story now. Together, we will move forward with care, respect and responsibility,” Kohli had said, according to a RCB release.
“Every time I walk out for RCB, it’s with passion, and that passion comes from you. From your love, your belief, and your unwavering support. You’ve always stood by us,” he said. “And from the bottom of my heart, I want you to know that we stand with you too. You’ve all been in my thoughts and prayers. With all of us holding on to each other, we’ll find our strength again,” Patidar said as per a RCB statement.
Also Read - When Preity Zinta told Ravi Shastri who should be the Player of the Match during IPL 2017 for Sandeep Sharma
RCB stated last week that their silence following the incident was a result of "grief" rather than "absence."
“This space was once filled with energy, memories, and moments that you enjoyed the most.. But June 4th changed everything. That day broke our hearts, and the silence since then has been our way of holding space,” their post on X read.
Since then, RCB has said that they would build a memorial in the city in remembrance of the 11 fans that died. The memorial's precise location has not yet been made public. The brand claims that it will be a permanent homage to the devotion of the fans.
“But even if he’s done so, how does it matter? Honestly, it just sets the precedent. Going forward, anyone can undergo a fitness test at any location. If it happens once, then you draw a line in the sand and say it’s the new rule. It won’t be necessary for everyone to go to Bengaluru. If it’s true, then it’s a new normal,” he added.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
