During the 1989 Test match between India and Pakistan in Karachi, a shocking incident unfolded when Indian captain Kris Srikkanth was attacked by a spectator on the field. The event, recently recounted by former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar, highlighted the intense rivalry and occasional turbulence that characterized cricket matches between the two nations.

The incident occurred during the first Test at the Karachi International Stadium. According to Manjrekar, who was fielding at mid-off, a man dressed in local attire walked onto the pitch and began shouting anti-India slogans. The intruder then approached Srikkanth and attacked him.

Manjrekar described the scene as a "street fight" that erupted on the pitch. He recalled that Srikkanth and the intruder exchanged blows, with Srikkanth holding the man by his shirt. Other Indian players, including wicketkeeper Kiran More, rushed to Srikkanth's defense. More, still wearing his wicketkeeping pads, reportedly attempted to kick the intruder. In the ensuing chaos, the intruder managed to rip Srikkanth's shirt, tearing off the buttons. Srikkanth was forced to leave the field due to his torn shirt. Security personnel eventually intervened and apprehended the attacker.

The incident occurred during a tense period in India-Pakistan relations, coinciding with a rise in terrorism in Kashmir. The 1989 tour was also notable as it marked the debut of Sachin Tendulkar in Test cricket. Manjrekar also had a strong showing with the bat. Despite the off-field disturbances, the Test series ultimately ended in a draw. Another match in the series had to be stopped due to unruly fans.