Former Indian cricketers Irfan Pathan and Sunil Gavaskar have strongly criticized the Australian media for their treatment of Virat Kohli. The controversy arose after an Australian newspaper portrayed Kohli as a “clown” following his shoulder barge incident with Australian debutant Sam Konstas. Pathan and Gavaskar accused the Australian media of exhibiting double standards, pointing out the repeated disrespect toward Indian cricketers.
“Double Standards” in Media Portrayal
Speaking on Day 2 of the fourth Test, Pathan expressed frustration over the inconsistent narrative surrounding Kohli. “They call him the ‘King’ one day and label him a ‘Joker’ the next. This is the very definition of double standards,” Pathan remarked. He argued that the Australian media capitalizes on Kohli’s global popularity while simultaneously tarnishing his image to suit their agenda.
Pattern of Disrespect Toward Indian Cricketers
Pathan highlighted that such incidents are not new, adding that they have been happening for years. He stressed that this pattern will persist unless the Indian cricket fraternity takes a firm stand.
Recalling a personal experience, Pathan shared an incident involving former Australian cricketer Damien Martyn. “I was fined for clapping after he insulted me. Martyn, who started the altercation, faced no consequences. This reflects the bias,” Pathan said.
Sunil Gavaskar Joins the Criticism
Echoing Pathan’s sentiments, Sunil Gavaskar criticized the ongoing hypocrisy. “This is old news. When they do it, it’s fine. When we do it, it’s a crime,” Gavaskar remarked. He emphasized the need to address such biased treatment to uphold respect for players.
The Caricature Incident
The controversy escalated after ‘The West Australian’ newspaper published a caricature of Kohli with a red clown nose, alongside labeling him a “clown.” Both Pathan and Gavaskar condemned the act as a disrespectful attempt to degrade a global cricket icon.
Aggression vs. Humiliation
Pathan clarified that no one condoned Kohli’s aggression during the incident with Konstas. “We left it to the officials to handle. But turning it into a media circus to degrade him is unacceptable,” he stated. The cricketers pointed out the fine line between addressing aggression and outright humiliation.
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Call for Change
Pathan urged Indian cricket and media to speak out against such incidents to prevent them from becoming a norm. “If we stay silent, this disrespect will continue,” he warned. Gavaskar, on his part, stressed the need for unity within the Indian cricket community to counter such narratives.
Global Icons Deserve Respect
The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the treatment of international players by foreign media. Kohli, known for his aggressive playing style and immense popularity, has often been at the center of such controversies. However, Pathan and Gavaskar’s comments highlight the need for consistent respect for all players, irrespective of nationalities.
This incident serves as a reminder of the power dynamics in cricket and the role media plays in shaping public perception. As Pathan aptly put it, “We will not accept disrespect, no matter where it comes from.”
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