Asia Cup Controversy: Kirmani Slams 'Disgusting' Politics As India Boycotts Asia Cup Presentation Ceremony

Former Indian cricketer Syed Kirmani has strongly condemned the current state of cricket, particularly following the controversial end to the Asia Cup final between India and Pakistan. The veteran keeper-batsman expressed his shame and "disgust" over the political undertones and alleged on-field arrogance witnessed in the modern game.

Kirmani's Outcry

In a highly emotional statement made on Monday, Kirmani lamented the loss of "gentleman-ness" in cricket, saying he was "ashamed" by comments and "rude, arrogant gestures on the field."

"What's happened to the current era of cricketers... What has happened at the Asia Cup is disgusting," Kirmani said. He stated that he was receiving messages about "politics" involving the Indian team and stressed that "Politics should not enter sports in general."

Kirmani made a passionate plea to current players, urging them to keep political differences separate from the game and not to dedicate their winnings to political causes. He fondly recalled the past, emphasizing the "wonderful camaraderie" and "hospitality" shared between Indian and Pakistani cricketers.

India Boycotts Trophy Ceremony

Kirmani's comments come in the wake of the Indian team's decision to boycott the Asia Cup trophy presentation on Sunday, where they defeated Pakistan in a thrilling last-over finish. The action was specifically directed at Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chief Mohsin Naqvi, who is also the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman.

The presentation ceremony was dramatically delayed by nearly an hour after the defeated Pakistani team initially refused to leave their dressing room. When the ceremony finally began, the Indian team, defending champions of the tournament, refused to accept the award.

A broadcaster read out an ACC announcement stating the team would not be receiving the trophy during the ceremony. This followed an earlier decision by the Indian team, reportedly made after a group-stage match was marred by a "no-handshake storm" that saw the PCB chief publicly criticize the Indian players and seek intervention from the International Cricket Council (ICC).

Drama on the Field

Sunday's event was fraught with tension. When Naqvi finally stepped onto the stage-after being visibly agitated by the Pakistani team's delay-he was met with loud jeers and chants of "Bharat Mata ki Jai" from the Indian spectators.

Eventually, Pakistan captain Salman Agha, coach Mike Hesson, and the team manager appeared to accept their runners-up medals, emerging to loud boos before the rest of the players followed. The abrupt ending to the ceremony due to the Indian team's boycott sealed a controversial close to a tournament already marred by political and on-field tensions.