Cricket Legend Emphasizes Keeping Politics Out of Sports

KARACHI: Following a string of controversies at the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025, former Indian World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev advised his fellow countrymen to “move forward” and allow politicians to handle political affairs.

This year’s Asia Cup faced turbulence due to several contentious incidents, including the Indian players’ refusal to shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts and their subsequent decision not to accept the trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

The Indian team’s stance caused a delay of one hour in the post-match presentation, which led to criticism from many in the cricket community, including Ravi Shastri.

The closing ceremony of the eight-team competition eventually commenced after a considerable delay. India’s Kuldeep Yadav, Shivam Dube, and Tilak Varma were presented with individual awards for their performances, while Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha received the prize money for his team’s runner-up finish.

Later, Kuldeep Yadav was invited again to receive the award for being the highest wicket-taker in the Asia Cup 2025. Following him, left-handed opener Abhishek Sharma was named Player of the Tournament for amassing 314 runs in seven innings, maintaining an average of 44.85.

The closing ceremony concluded without the winning team being awarded the trophy. Presenter Simon Doull confirmed the ending of the ceremony.

Subsequently, the organizers took the Asia Cup 2025 trophy, leaving the Indian team waiting.

Speaking to an Indian news outlet, Kapil Dev, who led India to World Cup victory in 1983, expressed that while it’s understandable for players to have strong feelings for their nation, these emotions should not overshadow sportsmanship on the field.

“Shaking hands is not a significant issue. If you didn’t shake hands, it’s not critical. If you announced you didn’t want to accept the trophy from a particular individual, that’s also acceptable.”
He further stated, “However, you cannot dwell on such matters. You must conclude it and proceed forward. Allow the government and politicians to address these matters.”

The former cricketer urged that all parties concerned should work to resolve any issues.

Dev commented for media outlets, “I simply want to emphasize that it is the responsibility of the entire media to focus on the sporting aspects instead of the political dimensions.”

“Yes, the media bears the responsibility of presenting a comprehensive view, but as a sportsman, I prefer that we concentrate on sports. That would be more constructive,” he concluded.