No Whistle Podu in Chennai for T20 World Cup 2026? Senior cop clears the air
India Today
T20 World Cup 2026: Fans at Chepauk were barred from carrying whistles during the T20 World Cup match, sparking confusion. A senior cop clarified no official ban exists, though the timing amid elections raised eyebrows.
Fans heading to the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium for Sunday's T20 World Cup match between New Zealand and Afghanistan were turned away at the gates if they were carrying whistles.
Police personnel stationed around the venue enforced the unusual restriction, while vendors nearby were told not to sell whistles.
T20 World Cup, Afghanistan vs New Zealand Highlights
A senior police official from Triplicane later told India Today that no formal ban was in place, suggesting the incident arose from confusion among officers on the ground.
The restriction has sparked debate, given the whistle's deep-rooted connection to Chennai's cricket culture. For years, 'Whistle Podu' has been the signature chant of Chennai Super Kings fans, echoing through stadiums whenever the home team takes the field.
Whistles are not typically listed among banned items at cricket venues, which usually prohibit things like outside food, alcohol, large bags, fireworks, and professional cameras.
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