Legendary all-rounder Kapil Dev has said that Indian cricketers have to follow the government’s instructions on interactions with Pakistan players, amid the ongoing tensions between the two countries.
He commented after the Indian women’s cricket team didn’t take the Asia Cup trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi following their 72-run victory over Sri Lanka in the final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
The incident once again sparked controversy, bringing the focus back on the strained sporting ties between India and Pakistan.
“If the government has taken a stance not to shake hands with Pakistan players, then our cricketers have no choice. In such matters, players will go by what the government says,” Kapil Dev told India Today.
The Indian players celebrated the success before head coach Amol Muzumdar spoke to the team. The players conducted their medal ceremony, with BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia and vice-president Rajeev Shukla presenting the fielding medal to the best fielder Nandani Sharma.
Saikia lauded the players for their effort, while Naqvi and other officials worked on preparations for the presentation ceremony in the background. Naqvi gave the runners-up cheque to Sri Lanka skipper Chamari Athapaththu. The ceremony concluded after Athapaththu spoke to Farvez Maharoof.
Humane treatment for Imran Khan is our basic demand, says Kapil Dev
Kapil Dev also spoke about Imran Khan, who has been in Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi since 2023 after he was found guilty in corruption cases.
“Imran Khan deserves humane treatment, and this is our demand,” Kapil Dev said.
Khan has been behind bars for more than three years, and former players are speaking in his support. 22 former captains wrote to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, urging him to instruct the officials to provide better facilities to the veteran cricketer and weekly family visits.
They also called for a Supreme Court-monitored medical board, including Imran Khan’s doctors, for independent assessment of his health and providing recommended treatment without any delay. Pat Cummins is the only current cricketer who has spoken in favour of Imran. Former Pakistan cricketers Javed Miandad, Wasim Akram and Moin Khan are also concerned about Khan’s health.