Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the Indian cricket team after its Asia Cup victory against Pakistan, drawing criticism for comparing the sporting triumph to a military operation.
India clinched the Asia Cup crown for the ninth time with a five-wicket win over Pakistan in a tense final at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday, September 28.
“#OperationSindoor on the games field. Outcome is the same – India wins! Congrats to our cricketers,” Modi posted on X shortly after the win.
The remark was immediately criticised by many, who said it was inappropriate to equate a cricket match with a defence operation. The government and the BCCI were already under fire for engaging in cricket with Pakistan while boycotting the country in other ways.
India’s bowlers scripted the win with a commanding performance.
Kuldeep Yadav, after conceding 23 runs in his first two overs, made a stunning comeback to claim four wickets for just seven runs in his next two. His spell included three crucial dismissals in the 17th over.
He was well supported by Axar Patel and Varun Chakaravarthy, who took two wickets each. Jasprit Bumrah added two more in the final overs.
From 113/1 in the 13th over, Pakistan collapsed to 146 all out in 19.1 overs, losing their last nine wickets for just 33 runs.
While the emphatic win sealed India’s ninth Asia Cup title, PM Modi’s choice of words overshadowed celebrations and triggered a wider debate.