Indian cricket team's most loyal fan, Sudhir Gautam, denied entry inside the PCA stadium

One of Sachin Tendulkar and Indian cricket team’s biggest fans, Sudhir Gautam was denied entry to the Punjab Cricket Association stadium in Mohali. It is learned as per reports that the step was taken to follow the guidelines provided under the flag code of India 2002.

India is playing the third test of the 5-match series in Mohali and has a 1-0 lead over the visitors so far by virtue of their victory in Visakhapatnam.

A constant fixture in matches featuring the national team in India or even abroad, Gautham is often seen waving the tricolour with his body also painted in the Indian colours.

During the first day of the Mohali test on Friday, the dedicated spectator was seen standing outside the stadium and eagerly waiting for a reply from the security officials for not permitting him inside the park. “To strictly follow the guidelines provided under the Flag Code of India 2002 and Prevention of Insults to the National Honour Act, 1971,” stated an advisory for the spectators in Mohali.

It is learned as per the reports of The Times of India that the Punjab Cricket Association had followed instructions as per a directive received by them, which is the sole reason for not allowing Sudhir inside the stadium.

“We have been asked to adhere to it without fail; hence, the local police and security officials have been informed about it. They will now ensure that it is strictly followed,” said PCA secretary, GS Walia to Times of India,” stated GS Walia, the secretary of PCA.

During the last two Tests In Rajkot and Vishakhapatnam, the ardent fan faced no such problems and was allowed inside the stadium. Regarding the matter, he said, “Nobody stopped me there, so I am surprised why it’s happening here. I have brought this to the notice of Indian team’s security in charge, and he has promised to look into the matter.”

The next Test match starts on December 8 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai which is the home ground of his ‘hero’ Sachin Tendulkar, and will be interesting to see if he gets the nod to cheer for the cricket team once again from inside the stadium.