Pakistan and Afghanistan fans in violent clash at the Cricket World Cup as hooligans use security barrier and flags as weapons

A VIOLENT clash broke out outside the Headingley Stadium during Afghanistan and Pakistan's Cricket World Cup group stage match.

And the brawls continue after the game, with fans hurling bottles, backpacks and BINS at each other in the stands.



West Yorkshire Police were reportedly first called to attend an incident just before midday.

Hooligans were seen trying to break through security gates and using barriers as a weapon in ugly scenes in Leeds.

In video footage, screaming cricket thugs – wearing flags of their countries – throw bottles at fans supporting their opponents.

Others are seen trading punches and kicking each other, with some using security barriers and flagsticks to batter their rivals.

One topless hooligan was seen being tackled by two members of security personnel.

Afghanistan supporters also tried to break down the gates at Headingley, pushing them against the guards.

And according to a reporter on the scene, Murtaza Ali, two arrests for violent actions have been made.

Two fans are also believed to have been evicted from Headingley after scuffles in the crowd.

An ICC spokesperson said they were aware of "some scuffles among a minority of fans".

"We are currently working with the venue security team and local police force to ensure there are no further incidents," the spokesperson added.

"We do not condone this type of behaviour, and will take appropriate action against any anti-social behaviour that spoils the enjoyment for the majority of fans."

West Yorkshire Police police said they were called to "reports of some trouble outside the ground linked to people trying to get in".

"Officers attended to disperse the group without any issues and remained on patrol in the area," a statement added.

The Pakistan-Afghanistan rivalry is known to be fierce due to historical differences.

An aircraft flew over Headingley earlier today carrying a banner that read: "Help end disappearances in Pakistan."

The slogan of "Justice for Balochistan" – the largest Pakistan province that borders Afghanistan – was also reportedly shown.

Human rights protesters say religious minorities are being persecuted in Balochistan.


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According to Pakistani Government, 5,000 people have been registered as having disappeared since 2014.

But independent human rights organisations say the number is much higher.

They say 20,000 have reportedly been abducted only from Balochistan, and more than 2,500 have turned up dead with signs of extreme torture.

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