Kirti azad criticizes T20 World Cup trophy visit to temple

By Ananya Rao / 10.03.2026

Kirti Azad’s criticism is rooted in his experience as a member of the 1983 World Cup-winning team, which included players from diverse religious backgrounds. His remarks come after the Indian cricket team celebrated their victory over New Zealand in the T20 World Cup, held on March 8, 2026, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Recent Developments

Following their victory, the Indian cricket team took the T20 World Cup trophy to the Hanuman Temple for blessings. This action has drawn sharp criticism from Azad, who stated, “This Team Represents INDIA — not Surya Kumar Yadav’s or Jay Shah’s Family!” He emphasized that the trophy belongs to “1.4 billion Indians of EVERY Faith — NOT ONE RELIGION’S VICTORY LAP!”

Azad, who was part of the 1983 World Cup-winning squad, highlighted the importance of inclusivity in sports. He remarked, “A sportsperson or sports does not belong to any religion or caste but only to the sport.” His comments reflect a broader sentiment that sports should unite individuals across various backgrounds.

Azad’s statements have sparked discussions among cricket fans and observers, with many supporting his call for a more inclusive approach to celebrating national achievements. He pointed out that when the Indian team won the World Cup in 1983, it comprised players from various religious backgrounds, including Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, and Christian.

As the cricket community continues to react to Azad’s comments, it remains to be seen how the Indian cricket board and team management will address the concerns raised. Observers are keenly watching for any official statements or actions that may follow this controversy.