On Sunday, June 9, the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York was abuzz with excitement as the India National Cricket Team faced off against Pakistan in a highly anticipated ICC T20 World Cup 2024 clash. Among the enthusiastic spectators was social media sensation and ardent Virat Kohli fan, IShowSpeed. The American YouTuber, rapper, and online gamer attended the match donning an Indian jersey with Kohli’s name and the iconic number 18 emblazoned on the back.
With close to 34,000 fans in attendance, the atmosphere was electric. IShowSpeed’s reactions throughout the match captured the emotions of the day, going viral on social media. Particularly poignant was his reaction to Kohli’s unexpected early dismissal. On the second delivery of the second over, following a rain break, Kohli executed a commanding shot off Naseem Shah. However, just two balls later, he was caught by Usman Khan, attempting to slap a wide delivery over point, resulting in his rare single-digit score of 4 runs against Pakistan in T20Is.
Previously, Kohli boasted an impressive average of 308 against Pakistan in T20 World Cups, making this early exit particularly surprising. IShowSpeed’s disappointment was palpable, and he struggled to contain his emotions. One video showed him almost in tears, unable to process Kohli’s departure. However, a supportive Indian fan in the stands encouraged him to stay calm.
India’s batting lineup faced further challenges, getting bundled out for a modest total of 119 runs. Nevertheless, the Indian bowlers staged a remarkable comeback. Jasprit Bumrah led the charge, delivering an outstanding performance with figures of 3/14 in his 4-over spell, earning him the Player of the Match accolade. Pakistan was restricted to 113/7, securing India’s victory by six runs. This win marked India’s seventh triumph over Pakistan in their last eight T20 World Cup encounters.
As the match concluded, IShowSpeed joined in the jubilant celebrations with Indian fans, his earlier disappointment transformed into sheer joy. The atmosphere in the stadium was electric, and Speed’s enthusiastic participation added to the excitement. His attendance at this match followed a similar appearance at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on October 14, 2023, for an ODI World Cup clash between the same teams.
IShowSpeed’s presence at these high-stakes matches underscores the universal appeal of cricket, transcending borders and bringing together fans from diverse backgrounds to celebrate the sport they love.
