Delhi: Former England cricket team captain Nasir Hussain has expressed deep concern about the increasing interference of politics in cricket. He said that cricket, which once connected countries, is now gradually becoming a medium to widen distances. In recent years, incidents like players not shaking hands or refusing to accept the trophy are damaging the soul of the game.

Criticism of attitude of Indian players

Recalling the incidents that happened during the Asia Cup 2025, Hussain said that it was very disappointing for the Indian players not to shake hands with the Pakistani players and later refusing to accept the trophy from the PCB Chairman. He said that earlier there used to be no conflict between politics and cricket, but now it is gradually becoming common, in which players are also seen getting involved.

Bangladesh bowler became the root of controversy

Hussain said that when Bangladeshi player Mustafizur Rahman was suddenly dropped from the Indian Premier League (IPL) team citing ‘prevailing situation’, the situation started worsening. That same decision later took the form of a big controversy.

Hussain’s question to ICC

He gave mixed reactions regarding the International Cricket Council (ICC). On one hand, Hussain admitted that it was not easy to change the schedule at the last moment on Bangladesh’s request, but on the other hand he also raised the question that if the same demand had come from India, would the ICC have shown the same strictness. According to him, all countries are just expecting an equal and fair attitude.

Hussain finally said that with power comes responsibility. If big cricket boards continue to suppress smaller or weaker boards, their cricket will become weaker and in future matches like India-Bangladesh or India-Pakistan will not be able to provide the thrill for which they are known.

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