‘It’s Too Much’ – Jason Holder Criticizes India Over Asia Cup Trophy Controversy

Former captain of West Indies, Jason Holder, has slammed India over its conduct during the recent Asia Cup tournament. He said it was disappointing to see how tensions between the two countries affected the game of cricket. He specifically highlighted the incident when India did not receive the Asia Cup trophy after winning the final, adding that such gimmicks should have no place in international cricket.

Jason Holder believes that both India and Pakistan are cricket powerhouses, so they should set aside off-field issues while competing on the international stage.

"I don't like this whole India and Pakistan rivalry. They are two powerhouses in world cricket. To see how things have transpired, it's just sad. I saw India win the Asia Cup and they didn't go on stage to accept the trophy. I think it's too much; these things should not be in our game," said Jason Holder.

He further said that cricketers have a huge responsibility to promote the message of peace in the world. As they are often idolized by many youngsters, they need to be careful about their conduct while playing cricket on the international stage.

"We as cricketers are ambassadors for the world. If we are talking about world peace and making the world a better place, that's not what you want to see from your idols.” said Jason Holder.

Holder admitted that the history between India and Pakistan has been tough, but this does not mean that things cannot change in the future. He urged the cricketers of both nations to come together with a message of peace, as they have a big influence in the society.

“If you are inspiring a generation, we have to find a way to come together. I get it, there's a long history behind it. But it can change if we as cricketers come together because we have the influence," said Jason Holder.

Grace Hayden, who was speaking with Jason Holder online, said that she experienced a scary atmosphere when hostilities between both nations intensified last year. She still believes that both countries are great, as they have a very beautiful culture.

"I was in India at the time and it was tough; you did not know what was going to happen. I have great respect for both countries, they are such beautiful people, beautiful cultures. I love both countries. That's why it hurts everyone in cricket in times like this, because we have such respect and love for both countries," said Grace Hayden.

Jason Holder then shared his experience while he was playing PSL in Pakistan last year. Due to Pakistan’s great security, he didn’t felt scared, but there was still a bit of uncertainty related to the scheduling of matches.

"I was in Pakistan at the time. I didn't feel scared but there was so much uncertainty. I think it's so hard to be in a World Cup, for example, and you have to shift games because India can't come to Pakistan when cricket is supposed to be played in Pakistan or vice versa. I think it's so wrong," said Jason Holder.

Calling Out the Hypocrisy of Indian-Owned Franchises

The former West Indies captain then criticized the decision of the Indian team to not shake hands with the Pakistan team. He also slammed the hypocrisy of various leagues in which Pakistani players are often not picked by the Indian-owned franchises. He believes such restrictions are disappointing, as it only creates a divide in the cricket world.

"This whole facade they have to put up where they can't shake hands, or that Pakistan players can't be involved in franchises that are owned by Indians, it creates a big divide in world cricket. We want the best competition; we want the best players to play together without restrictions," said Jason Holder.

Grace Hayden then shared her opinions, saying that all cricketers are part of one big family. Keeping that in view, they should try to come together on the same page, as that will help to promote a message of peace and harmony.

"We are one big cricket family at the end of the day. We come from so many different parts of the world. It would be nice if we all could come together and be on the same page," concluded Grace Hayden.