In a recent segment by ABC Sport, several Australian cricketers were prompted to encapsulate the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the International Cricket Council (ICC), and Indian cricket in a single word. The responses have ignited conversations about perceptions of power dynamics within international cricket.
Test captain Pat Cummins initiated the session by describing all three entities as “Big.” Travis Head, known for his impactful performances against India, referred to the BCCI as “rulers,” the ICC as “second,” and Indian cricket as “strong.”
Steve Smith labeled the BCCI as a “powerhouse” and initially described the ICC as “not as powerful.” He quickly retracted this statement, laughing and clarifying, “No, no I can’t say that. It was a joke,” before revising his description of the ICC to “leaders.”
Usman Khawaja’s reaction was notably reserved; when asked about the ICC, he paused and responded with “pass.” This reticence may stem from a previous incident where the ICC denied his request to display a dove and olive branch on his equipment during a Boxing Day Test, intended to raise awareness about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Khawaja had criticized the ICC for “double standards” following the rejection.
These candid responses shed light on players’ perceptions of the influence and roles of cricket’s governing bodies, particularly highlighting the significant impact of the BCCI in the global cricket landscape.
