New Delhi: India's opening game in the ongoing World Cup saw former skipper MS Dhoni once again profess his love for the security forces after he was spotted with the regimental dagger insignia of the Indian Para Special Forces on his wicket-keeping gloves. But the International Cricket Council has asked the Board of Control for Cricket in India to get the symbol removed from Dhoni's gloves.
The "Balidaan Badge" or the Army insignia was spotted on Dhoni's gloves as television replays showed him stumping Phehlukwayo in the 40th over of the innings bowled by Yuzvendra Chahal.Balidaan is a distinct insignia of the Special Forces which are part of the Parachute Regiment. Dhoni, who has been conferred an honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Parachute Regiment in 2011, had also undergone training under the Para Brigade in 2015.Twitter was abuzz with fans showing respect to Dhoni. One fan wrote: "Salute & respect to MS Dhoni who printed insignia of 'Balidan' on his wicket keeping gloves."
Not everyone was amused. ‘‘He never went into Indian Army for Intense Training straight 9-18 months like my bhai did. He should be stripped off and prevented from commercializing Indian Army SF Badge,’’ commented another. ‘‘I understand the sentiments. Also admire Dhoni for subtlety. But ICC has a point. Tomorrow, Pak will show its thunderbolt SSG insignia. Takes the attention off sport. This is not the platform. Period.’’ That seems to sum up the sentiment.
-BAIDURJO BHOSE
