Last Updated on 1 month by Charbel Coorey
ICC chairman Jay Shah has come in for criticism after posing with Rohit Sharma following India’s victory against New Zealand in the Champions Trophy final. The official ICC account tweeted two photos of Shah and Rohit – one with the Champions Trophy and another with the Champions Trophy and 2024 T20 World Cup – and this hasn’t sat well with fans.
There was plenty of controversy and discussions before and during the tournament about India’s involvement in Dubai. Despite India’s excellent performance, critics pointed to the preferential treatment received by playing at one ground while other teams had to travel thousands of kilometres in contrast. Also, no Pakistan cricket official was present during the post-final presentation ceremony.
Hence, the ICC chair posing with the winning captain has not gone down well, even among some Indian fans.
Fans react to Jay Shah posing with Rohit Sharma and Champions Trophy in Dubai
Fans believe Shah, as ICC chair, should have a more neutral stance. He has been seen celebrating India’s victory with the players, before the photos with captain Rohit.
“This has sort of crossed the line which it shouldn’t have. We all know you’re not actually neutral, but you can avoid blatantly showing that at this stage,” wrote a fan on X.
“Someone needs to tell this clown that ICC doesn’t stand for Indian Cricket Council. Corruption at its finest,” wrote another fan.
Here are some other reactions from fans criticising the photos posted to social media.
India picked up their second ICC trophy in a row after winning the 2024 T20 World Cup. They went unbeaten in both tournaments, part of a record that stretches to 23 wins in their past 24 games in ICC events. However, despite such a fantastic record, the general consensus is that India are getting too many advantages, including knowing where their T20 World Cup semi-final would be played in advance.
What are your thoughts? Should Jay Shah be more neutral in light of what took place during and after the Champions Trophy? Leave a comment or get in touch with @cric_blog on X.
