In a surprising turn of events, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has injected politics into the realm of cricket, attributing India’s loss in the Cricket World Cup final against Australia to the scheduling of the match on former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s birthday. Speaking at a public gathering in Telangana, Sarma suggested that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) should exercise caution in organizing matches on the birthdays of the Gandhi family members.
This comment adds a political twist to the ongoing controversy surrounding the World Cup, as Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had earlier hinted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s presence at the final match led to India’s defeat. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) swiftly responded by filing a complaint with the Election Commission regarding Rahul Gandhi’s remarks.
The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup final, which took place on February 19, witnessed Australia emerging victorious over India by six wickets. The cricketing world has been abuzz with discussions about the match, with various opinions and speculations circulating.
Sarma’s comments introduce a new dimension to the discourse, highlighting the intersection of sports and politics. While cricket is often seen as a unifying force in India, the recent statements from political figures indicate the potential for it to become a battleground for partisan narratives.
The scheduling of cricket matches on significant dates, such as political figures’ birthdays, is now being scrutinized for potential political implications. As the political tussle continues, it remains to be seen how these statements will influence public opinion and whether they will have a lasting impact on the intersection of sports and politics in the country. Cricket enthusiasts and political observers alike are closely watching how this unique saga unfolds.