World Cup 2019: PCB complains to ICC over Star Sports’ Indo-Pak advert

Even as India is pummeling Pakistan in Manchester after being put into bat first, the news is surfacing that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has complained to the ICC regarding the controversial commercial. The Indian broadcaster of the World Cup, Star Sports had a taken a dig over Pakistan by wishing Happy Father’s Day in the commercial in the lead up to the encounter.

Also, the Indian guy in the commercial is shown teasing his Pakistani friend when the latter speaks about the teachings of his father. The Pakistani guy is seen telling to Bangladeshi friend that his ‘Abbu’ (father) has taught him to keep trying always and the success will always come at some stage. At the same time, the Indian guy interrupts saying, “Maine aisa kab kaha?” (When did I tell you?)

Ever since the commercial has gone live, the controversy surrounding it has been huge. The PCB hasn’t liked it at all and has taken up the matter to the ICC. It has also been reported that the top officials of the apex body have had a quiet word with the broadcasters as well and told them regarding PCB’s objection.

However, BCCI officials are aware of the matter but they have deliberately stayed away from commenting as it doesn’t concern them much.

BCCI official confirms

The PCB chief Ehsan Mani had expressed his displeasure a few days ago over the commercial and is known to have raised his objection on behalf of the board. “Yes, Ehsan Mani on behalf of PCB has intimated the ICC raising objection on the content of the TVC. I am not sure if Mani has written a letter or had a telephonic conversation but we have come to know that an objection has been raised,” a senior BCCI official close to the developments was quoted as saying by Deccan Chronicle.

Meanwhile, as far as the ongoing match is concerned, Team India has crossed the 300-run mark comfortably and are looking really good to score over 350. Rohit Sharma’s scintillating ton has been complimented perfectly by Virat Kohli and with MS Dhoni also in the middle, Pakistan will have to chase a daunting total it seems.