Fox Cricket Poster Sparks Controversy Ahead of Border-Gavaskar Trophy
Perth, Australia - As the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, a promotional poster released by Fox Cricket has ignited discussions and controversy on social media platforms. The poster, which was aired during the third and final ODI between Australia and Pakistan at Perth Stadium, prominently featured Indian cricket star Virat Kohli alongside Australian captain Pat Cummins, leaving fans and analysts questioning the absence of current Indian skipper Rohit Sharma.
The uncertainty surrounding Sharma's participation in the upcoming Test series due to an injury has been a topic of intense speculation. However, the choice to highlight Kohli, who has a storied history in Australia, has raised eyebrows. Kohli's impressive track record Down Under includes 1352 runs in 13 matches with an average of 54, including six centuries and four half-centuries. His most memorable performance came during the 2014-15 tour where he amassed 692 runs at an average of 86.50, a series which also marked his ascension to the Indian Test captaincy following MS Dhoni's sudden retirement from the format.
The decision to feature Kohli on the promotional material might reflect his significant contribution to cricket in Australia and his popularity, but it has also led to a debate over the representation of the current Indian team leadership in the promotional campaigns for the series.
Fox Cricket, the official broadcaster for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, has not yet commented on the choice of players featured in the poster. Meanwhile, cricket enthusiasts across the globe continue to speculate on the implications of this promotional strategy as the series kickoff approaches, with many expressing their views on social media.
The first Test match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is scheduled to begin on December 6, 2023, at the Perth Stadium, where the spotlight will undoubtedly be on both teams' performances, regardless of who graces the promotional materials.