The ICC on Thursday requested the BCCI to have the insignia removed from Indian wicket keeper and former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s gloves. It has stirred a storm on social media. The internet is divided. M S Dhoni, an Honorary Lieutenant Colonel in the Parachute Regiment of the Territorial Army, had the insignia printed on his gloves during the India-South Africa match.

The issue

The insignia depicted a dagger with wings, similar to that on the badge of Special Forces. However, the Para badge also has the word ‘Balidan’ (sacrifice), which was missing from the gloves worn by M S Dhoni.

BCCI’s statement

BCCI denied the claim of the ICC on this ground saying that, Dhoni ‘did not breach any regulations’ as the logo ‘is not the paramilitary regimental dagger.’ BCCI on Friday sought ICC’s permission to allow Dhoni to wear the gloves with the logo. A formal request has been sent for clearance to the ICC.

ICC guidelines

ICC regulations say that players can’t sport anything that is related to political, religious or racial activities or causes.

What are the consequences?

ICC, said in a statement that ‘for first breach, just a request to remove’ is sent, followed by penalty.

No matter what, we stand by you Mahi!