Ahead of the much-anticipated clash between arch-rivalsIndia and Pakistan in the ongoing World Cup, a Pakistan TV channel has aired apromotional advertisement wherein a character mimicking Wing CommanderAbhinandan Varthaman has been shown.
In a 33-second video released by Pakistan’s Jazz TV, thecharacter impersonating Abhinandan can be seen sporting the Indian Air Forcepilot’s signature moustache. However, instead of a military dress, thecharacter is shown wearing the jersey of the Indian cricket team.
The look-a-like repeats Abhinandan’s viral statement”I’m sorry, I am not supposed to tell you this” several times in theadvertisement as he is asked questions related to India’s playing XI and theteam’s strategy if it wins the toss.
He is also seen sipping a cup of tea — much like the wayAbhinandan was seen in clips made public by the Pakistani authorities after hiscapture on February 27 when Pakistani jets downed the Air Force pilot’s Mig 21Bason.
After two questions, the character impersonating Abhinandanis told by the interrogator to leave. As the impersonator gets up to leave, heis pulled back by the interrogator who says: “Ek second ruko! cup kahanleke ja raho ho? (Wait a second! Where are you taking the cup?).” The ideato pun on the word “cup” was to refer to the coveted trophy.
India would be aiming to take revenge of the 2017 ChampionsTrophy final loss when the two sides meet on June 16 in Manchester.
However, in World Cups, India have an excellent recordagainst Pakistan as they have won all the six games they have played so faragainst the 1992 champions.