Suryakumar’s ‘Operation Sindoor’ Reference Sparks Controversy
Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav has reportedly received an official warning from the International Cricket Council (ICC) following remarks he made after India’s win over Pakistan on September 14. According to a report by ESPNCricinfo, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) lodged a formal complaint to the ICC, objecting to what it described as “political” comments made by Yadav during the post-match presentation and press conference.
During the post-match interaction, Suryakumar dedicated the victory to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack, a gesture that raised some eyebrows. However, it was his reference to “Operation Sindoor” in the press conference that reportedly prompted stronger concerns and eventually triggered the complaint from the PCB.
A hearing was held by the ICC on September 25 (Thursday) where the matter was reviewed. While no formal sanction has been imposed, sources indicate that the ICC issued an official warning to the Indian skipper, urging him to avoid making politically sensitive comments in the future. The governing body emphasized the importance of keeping cricket and politics separate on the international stage.
ICC to Review BCCI Complaint Against Pakistan Players
While the spotlight has been on Yadav, another hearing is also on the ICC’s agenda. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly submitted a complaint against Pakistani players Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan over alleged inappropriate gestures made during the same India-Pakistan encounter. The ICC is expected to review that complaint on September 26 (Friday).
Meanwhile, anticipation is building for the much-awaited Asia Cup 2025 Final, set to be played on Sunday, September 28, where India and Pakistan will face off in a title clash for the first time in the tournament’s history. Pakistan secured their spot in the final after a thrilling 11-run victory over Bangladesh on September 25.
As tensions rise both on and off the field, all eyes will be on the grand finale, where cricket fans around the world hope for a game that reflects the spirit of sport, free from controversies.