New Delhi: ICC flags potential code of conduct breach
The ICC is examining two official reports submitted by the PCB concerning remarks made by Suryakumar Yadav during the post-match presentation and subsequent press conference. Match referee Richie Richardson sent an email to the Indian team management acknowledging receipt of the reports and indicating that the remarks could have potentially harmed the image of the sport.
Richardson stated that, after reviewing the evidence and statements, a charge may be brought against Yadav for conduct “detrimental to the interest of the game.” The Indian captain will now have the option to either accept the charge or face a formal hearing with the ICC match referee, along with representatives from the BCCI and PCB.
The remarks in question
Following India’s victory, Suryakumar had dedicated the win to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and expressed solidarity with the armed forces:
“Perfect occasion, taking the time out, we stand by the families of the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack. We express our solidarity… Want to dedicate the win to all our armed forces who showed a lot of bravery.”
In the press conference, he further mentioned that the Indian team had followed BCCI and government instructions by avoiding post-match handshakes with Pakistani players:
“Our government and BCCI, we were aligned today… We came here to just play the game.”
Political tensions spill onto the cricket field
The PCB’s complaint cites politicisation of cricket and alleges a breach of the ICC’s code of conduct, which mandates neutrality in international sport. The complaint adds to the ongoing tension between the two cricket boards, as both sides have exchanged formal protests during the Asia Cup, including India’s recent grievance against Pakistani players Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan for on-field misconduct.
The ICC is expected to review the matter in detail, and a formal hearing could follow, potentially carrying disciplinary consequences for Suryakumar Yadav.