Did fans chant 'RCB, RCB' during the Pakistan vs Ireland T20 World Cup 2024 game?

The Pakistan vs Ireland T20 World Cup 2024 match on Sunday saw an unexpected buzz among the fans in the stadium. Social media erupted with claims that fans were chanting "RCB, RCB" during the game. This raised eyebrows since Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is an Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise, and neither Pakistan nor Ireland is directly associated with it.

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What is the truth? Did fans really chant RCB, RCB?

Upon closer examination, it appears that the chants were not for RCB. Instead, fans were actually shouting "Afridi, Afridi," in support of Shaheen Shah Afridi, a key player for the Pakistan cricket team. The confusion likely arose from the similarity in the sound of the chants. 

One social media user pointed out the mix-up, explaining that the repetitive nature of "Afridi, Afridi" could easily be mistaken for "RCB, RCB," especially in a noisy stadium environment.

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Shaheen Shah Afridi had a standout performance in the match, taking three wickets and helping to restrict Ireland to a total of 106/9 in 20 overs.

Pakistan and Ireland were playing their final game of the T20 World Cup 2024, with both teams already eliminated from the tournament. Despite the stakes being low, the enthusiasm from the fans remained high, showcasing their passion for the game and their players. Shaheen Shah Afridi's stellar performance provided a highlight in an otherwise inconsequential match.

PAK vs IRE, T20 World Cup 2024

Former champions Pakistan beat Ireland by three wickets to register a consolation win over Ireland in their inconsequential T20 World Cup match here on Sunday.

Left-arm pacers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Mohammad Amir wreaked havoc with the new ball, helping Pakistan restrict Ireland to 106 for nine.

Shaheen finally came to the party, albeit in a lost cause, returning with impressive figures of 3/22, while Amir scalped two wickets for 11 runs as Pakistan bowlers ignited fire on a damp pitch after electing to bowl.

Imad Wasim (3/8) bowled brilliantly while Haris Rauf (1/17) also accounted for a batter. Gareth Delany (31 off 19) and Mark Adair (15 off 19) shared crucial 32-run stand for the seventh wicket to keep Ireland in the game.

Pakistan made a heavy weather of the chase as they were reduced to 57 for 5 in 9.3 overs before skipper Babar Azam (32 not out) and Abbas Afridi (17) did the repair job.

Barry McCarthy (3/15) was the pick of Ireland bowlers.

(With PTI inputs)