ICC Trophy Temple Row: SRH Star’s Blunt Response

India wicketkeeper batter Ishan Kishan delivered a calm yet firm response when asked about former cricketer Kirti Azad’s criticism regarding Team India visiting a temple with the T20 World Cup trophy. The remark came amid an ongoing debate on social media.

Ishan Kishan spoke to reporters after arriving in Patna following India’s historic T20 World Cup 2026 triumph. Fans gathered in large numbers to welcome the cricketer. The celebrations reflected the excitement surrounding India’s major tournament victory.

A warm reception awaited Ishan Kishan at Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport. Supporters and well wishers turned up to greet the player. The atmosphere highlighted the pride among fans after the national team’s successful campaign.

During a media interaction, Ishan Kishan was asked about comments made by Kirti Azad. The former cricketer had criticised the Indian team for taking the World Cup trophy to a temple. He also questioned why the trophy was not taken to places of other religions.

Ishan Kishan avoided entering the controversy and redirected the focus toward the team’s achievement. He stressed that the discussion should centre on the joy of winning the World Cup rather than debates unrelated to cricket.

“I have just won such a wonderful World Cup. Please ask better questions. What can I say about what Kirti Azad said? Please ask some good questions. Ask how it feels and how much fun it was,” Ishan Kishan said.

The response quickly gained attention on social media platforms. Many fans praised Ishan Kishan for maintaining composure and focusing on cricket. Supporters appreciated his attempt to shift the conversation back to the team’s achievement.

The debate began after India captain Suryakumar Yadav visited a Hanuman temple in Ahmedabad with the trophy. Head coach Gautam Gambhir and ICC chairman Jay Shah were also present. The visit happened after India defeated New Zealand in the final.

Kirti Azad later shared his views through social media posts. He said the trophy represents the entire nation and followers of all religions. He also questioned why the team did not visit places such as a mosque, church or gurdwara.

Reports also noted that several players had visited temples before crucial matches. Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya and Gautam Gambhir were among those who offered prayers before the semifinal and final.

Despite the online debate, many players have kept their attention on the victory. India’s win against New Zealand in Ahmedabad remains a major achievement in the team’s history.

For Ishan Kishan, the message remained simple. The spotlight should remain on India’s World Cup success. The celebration, according to him, belongs to the team’s performance and the joy of the historic win.