Local leader digs up cricket pitch in Maharashtra’s Jalgaon with tractor after not being invited; viral video sparks outrage

A cricket tournament final in Maharashtra’s Jalgaon district turned chaotic after a local politician allegedly drove a tractor onto the pitch and damaged it. The incident reportedly occurred due to anger over not being invited to the event, officials said.

Incident Took Place During MLA Trophy Final

The disruption happened on April 12 during the final match of the MLA Trophy cricket tournament in Dharangaon, located over 400 km from Mumbai. During the game, a tractor suddenly entered the ground and destroyed the pitch.

What Triggered the Incident?

So, what led to this chaos?

According to officials, as quoted by PTI, the local politician allegedly drove the tractor onto the field and vandalised the pitch after feeling upset about not receiving an invitation to the tournament.

Leader Allegedly Angry Over No Invitation

Officials stated that the individual, who is the president of the Dharangaon municipal council, was reportedly angry with the organisers for excluding him from the event.

Viral Video Shows Pitch Being Destroyed

A video of the incident has gone viral, showing the man driving the tractor across the field, damaging the surface and making the pitch unfit for play. Players, organisers, and spectators were left shocked as the situation escalated rapidly.

Match Called Off, Police Step In

Due to unsafe playing conditions, the match was immediately called off. The incident also raised concerns about security arrangements for teams from Dharangaon and nearby areas. Local police arrived quickly and managed to bring the situation under control, officials said.

No Complaint Filed

Despite the incident, no formal complaint was registered, as the organisers chose not to pursue the matter further, according to officials.

[With TOI inputs]