‘Punish Suryakumar Yadav and set example’ – Shoaib Malik says ICC must apply rules equally after IND vs PAK controversy

Saurav Goyal

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‘Punish Suryakumar Yadav and set example’ – Shoaib Malik says ICC must apply rules equally after IND vs PAK controversy image

(getty)

The India vs Pakistan clash at the Asia Cup 2025 was decided on the field with India winning by seven wickets, but the drama has continued long after the last ball.

A new storm has started after Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav dedicated the win to the Indian Army and victims of the Pahalgam terror attack. Pakistan has objected strongly, calling his words political and in breach of ICC rules.

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Adding to the noise, former Pakistan all-rounder Shoaib Malik has now asked the ICC to set an example by punishing Surya if rules have been broken.

Shoaib Malik wants ICC to take action against Suryakumar Yadav for political statement

Speaking about the situation, Malik stressed that rules cannot be bent depending on who the player is. He explained that when an organization makes laws, they are meant for everyone, no matter the fame or financial value a player brings.

Malik said if the ICC’s rulebook clearly bans political statements, then it must be enforced in every case. He pointed out that even if Suryakumar is India’s captain and one of the most marketable stars, that should not change how the rules are applied. 

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"When any organization makes rules, they apply to everyone. And when those rules are followed by all, the organization grows. Everyone who is part of the organization must follow the same rules, no matter their background, whether they bring in more funding or sponsorships," said Malik.

"It doesn’t mean the rules should be bent. If the bylaws say no one can make political statements, and there’s a fine or penalty for breaking that rule, then it must be enforced. It doesn’t matter who it is- an example should be set. If the Indian captain, Suryakumar Yadav, makes a political statement and it’s against the rules, action should definitely be taken with a fine," he added.

Suryakumar Yadav involved in India vs Pakistan controversy

The controversy began after the match when Suryakumar Yadav praised India’s security forces for their role in Operation Sindoor and dedicated the win to the victims of the terror attack in Pahalgam.

He described the victory as a “reply” and said some things are bigger than sportsman spirit. While these words were cheered in India, Pakistan took the opposite view.

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Officials from the PCB claimed the remarks crossed into political ground, which is not allowed under the ICC’s Code of Conduct. Reports say the PCB is preparing a formal complaint and has until Saturday to submit it officially.

This issue follows on from the earlier “handshake saga” at the toss and after the match, when the Indian players did not shake hands with Salman Agha and his team. The matter is expected to resurface again when the two sides meet in the Super Four stage.

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Saurav Goyal

Saurav Goyal is a Content Producer at the Sporting News with over two years of experience in covering cricket. An avid cricket fan for more than two decades, his passion for the game led him to writing. Since then, he’s been delivering the latest news and engaging content to keep cricket fans informed and entertained.