Uninvited to cricket match, Maharashtra politician drives tractor onto pitch

A local cricket tournament final in Jalgaon district was dramatically disrupted after a municipal leader allegedly drove a tractor onto the pitch in anger over not being invited to the event, forcing organisers to abandon the match and sparking outrage after a video of the act went viral.

The incident occurred on April 12 during the final of the MLA Trophy cricket tournament in Dharangaon , located more than 400 kilometres from Mumbai. According to officials, the municipal council president of Dharangaon was upset that organisers had not invited him to the event.

Eyewitness accounts and viral footage show a tractor suddenly entering the ground while the match was underway. The driver headed straight toward the pitch, knocked over the stumps and churned up the turf , severely damaging the playing surface.

Players, organisers and spectators were left stunned as the pitch was rendered completely unplayable , making it impossible to continue the game. Officials immediately called off the final match due to unsafe playing conditions , bringing the tournament to an abrupt end.

Authorities said the civic leader “acted in a fit of rage” after feeling slighted by the organisers. The dramatic incident has since triggered widespread criticism online, with many questioning security arrangements at local sporting events and condemning the misuse of influence.

Local police reached the ground shortly after the disruption and brought the situation under control. However, no formal complaint has been lodged by organisers so far, officials said. Under Indian law, damaging property could attract provisions of the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, though any action would depend on whether a complaint is filed.

The episode has also sparked anger among residents and highlighted how local political rivalries can disrupt community sporting events meant to promote grassroots cricket.