One rule for India, another for others? Nasser Hussain slams ICC’s alleged double standards
By Nawaz Gohar ; Former England cricket captain Nasser Hussain has openly criticized the International Cricket Council (ICC) for its alleged double standards, stating that all nations must be treated equally within international cricket.
Hussain raised a pointed question: what would the ICC’s reaction have been if India, rather than Bangladesh, had demanded a change in venue? Would the ICC have expelled India from the event in such a scenario? He asserted that the ICC should adopt the same attitude toward Bangladesh and Pakistan as it does toward India. The former English captain remarked that Bangladesh remained firm on its stance and stood up for its player, while Pakistan took a positive and correct step by supporting Bangladesh. He emphasized that someone must eventually stand up and say that there has been enough politics in cricket, and it is time to let the sport remain just a sport. Hussain further noted that India abruptly excluded Mustafizur Rahman from the event due to political pressure, strengthening the perception that politics has deeply penetrated the game. He added that actions like refusing to shake hands or declining to accept a trophy go against the spirit of the game. He warned that if countries like Pakistan and Bangladesh continue to be pressured, global cricket will suffer severe damage. Praising the Pakistan cricket team’s performance, Nasser Hussain said that despite numerous restrictions and difficulties, Pakistan continues to perform brilliantly. This, he noted, is proof that it is essential to keep cricket free from political pressure.
