Former Indian cricket figures have voiced strong disappointment and shame over the controversies that marred the recent Asia Cup, citing a decline in sportsmanship and the intrusion of politics into the game.
The contentious atmosphere, which reportedly began with a ‘no handshake’ incident in the opening match, escalated through the tournament, culminating in the refusal by some to receive the trophy from PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. The debate surrounding these events continues to rage across social media.
Former India coach Ravi Shastri expressed his frustration with the overall situation, telling Indian media, “The match was worthy of a final, and then you had to wait for 45 minutes, not knowing what was happening. It’s absolutely ridiculous.”
Adding to the criticism, former Indian wicketkeeper Syed Kirmani spoke to the news agency ANI, lamenting the change in the game’s culture. “The decorum that was once the hallmark of this sport is no longer present in cricket played around the world today,” Kirmani stated. “We are witnessing extreme rudeness and arrogant behaviour on the field.”
Kirmani revealed he was receiving messages asking, ‘What has the Indian team done? What kind of politics is going on in the field?’
He went on to express deep regret, saying, “What happened in the Asia Cup is very unfortunate and shameful. My heart becomes heavy seeing where things are headed in the field of sport, especially in cricket.”
He strongly stressed the need to keep the game pure, urging that politics must not enter cricket. “Whatever happens outside the sport, let it stay there… but do not associate politics with this great game,” he said.
Kirmani contrasted the current atmosphere with his playing days: “In our time, there was wonderful friendship and brotherhood between cricketers. Pakistani players would come to India, and we would visit Pakistan. What magnificent hospitality, love, and affection we received. Today, as a cricketer, my head is bowed in shame.”