Picture Credit: Asian Cricket Council
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia urged fans to celebrate India’s emphatic Asia Cup victory, dismissing unnecessary controversies.
India’s commanding seven-wicket win over Pakistan on Sunday sparked heated debates after Indian players skipped post-match handshakes with opponents.
The Pakistan Cricket Board and Asian Cricket Council Chairman Mohsin Naqvi criticised the move, calling it disrespectful and unnecessary hostility.
However, Saikia emphasised celebrating India’s triumph instead of giving weight to external criticism from ‘third parties’ or ‘hostile countries’.
“I can only say India won handsomely, it was a thumping win, nothing more, nothing less,” Saikia said.
He added the team’s dominance should inspire national pride, insisting outside distractions must not overshadow their exceptional on-field performance.
Saikia clarified, “We should be proud of our boys, their hard work and success, not external noise, distractions.”
The controversy emerged when Indian players headed straight to the dressing room, leaving Pakistani players waiting for traditional handshakes.
Skipper Suryakumar Yadav later explained that the BCCI and the Indian government jointly made the decision.
“Our government and BCCI were aligned today. We came here solely to play cricket, nothing else,” Yadav told reporters.
He further said the decision symbolised India’s dignified response, emphasising cricketing focus over unwanted narratives fueled by rival boards or media.
Despite off-field tension, India showcased dominance, securing two consecutive victories and booking a spot in the Asia Cup Super Four.
The Men in Blue’s stellar performance against Pakistan highlighted their depth, resilience, and momentum ahead of the crucial knockout stages.
India will face Oman in their final Group A fixture on September 19, at Abu Dhabi’s Zayed Cricket Stadium.
Saikia concluded optimistically, expressing hope that the team maintains winning momentum, lifting spirits across the nation throughout this prestigious continental cricket tournament.
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