Batting sensation Virat Kohli’s fan Umar Draz, a Pakistani national, who was sent to jail on judicial remand for hosting an Indian flag on his rooftop in Okara, might be in for a surprise rescue from his superstar.
Virat’s brother, Vikas, has agreed to seek his brother’s views on convincing the Pakistan government to release Draz.
“Yes, we have heard about this incident and feel sorry for the fan,” said Vikas.
“I shall certainly seek Virat’s views after the match on Friday. We will also consult the right people and decide whether to approach the Pakistan government,” he added.
The 22-year-old Draz, who works as a tailor in the Okara district of Punjab, said he did not know it was a crime to hoist the Indian tricolor.
“We are in a family function today and can’t think of the right people to be identified for this appeal at this moment but will surely speak to Virat,” Vikas added. Police said Draz, 22 went “against the ideology of Pakistan” when he waved the flag at his house in Okara town in Punjab province Tuesday during India’s match against Australia in Adelaide.
Nuclear-armed neighbours Pakistan and India are arch-rivals dating back to independence from The Great Britain in 1947 and have fought three wars.
Regional police officer Faisal Rana said Draz was charged under Pakistan’s penal code with acting against Pakistan’s sovereignty. Draz could face 10 years in jail and a fine.
“Daraz initially told us that he is a true Pakistani but likes Kohli and never knew that was a crime,” Rana told media.
“His act is against our country’s sovereignty and is against the ideology of Pakistan.”
Rana also said Draz’s room was also full of Kohli’s portrait. “He is a diehard fan of Kohli and there were big posters pasted on the walls of his house,” the officer said.