New Delhi: Sidelining the pleas and emotions of billion Indians, International Cricket Council (ICC) on Friday denied Mahendra Singh Dhoni permission to wear the dagger insignia on his wicket-keeping gloves during the World Cup despite BCCI’s assertion that it was not a military symbol.
The Indian cricket board (BCCI) had sought permission for the star batsman from the world governing body, which eventually cited regulations in denying the permission.
“The ICC has responded to the BCCI to confirm the logo displayed by MS Dhoni in the previous match is not permitted to be worn on his wicket-keeping gloves at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019,” an ICC statement said.
Dhoni’s gloves became a centre of attraction on Wednesday’s World Cup match at Southampton, where India defeated South Africa by six wickets.
Read On: Request Dhoni To Remove Army Insignia From Gloves: ICC To BCCI
The dagger on his wicket-keeping gloves features regimental dagger insignia of the Indian Para Special Forces signifying “Balidaan”. While only commandos have the permission to use it, it is important to note here that Dhoni holds the rank of an honorary Lieutenant Colonel and his assigned unit is the 106 Territorial Army Battalion (Parachute Regiment).
The ‘violation’ by Dhoni was twofold. Players are allowed only two logos on their gloves and with the Army insignia, the Indian wicketkeeper’s gloves now sported three. Secondly, there was a debate whether the insignia constituted a political statement as the ICC’s rules on clothing and equipment do not permit a player to sport messages that are of a political, religious or racial nature.
BCCI had backed MSD and urged ICC to allow an exception but in vain.
Apart from his fans, various sportspersons such as Suresh Raina and decorated wrestler Yogeshwar Dutt also backed the former captain.
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