A First Information Report (FIR) has been lodged in India against Australian cricketer Mitchell Marsh following an incident where he was photographed with his legs on the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 trophy.
The image, which went viral after Australia’s victory over India in the final, has sparked controversy and backlash.
The FIR, initiated by RTI activist Pandit Keshav, accuses Marsh of disrespecting the sentiments of Indian cricket fans. Keshav has also sent a copy of his complaint to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging a ban on Marsh playing cricket in India. This move reflects the deep emotional connection Indian fans have with cricket and the World Cup trophy.
Indian pacer Mohammed Shami, the tournament’s leading wicket-taker, expressed his displeasure with Marsh’s behaviour. Shami’s remarks highlight the reverence with which the trophy is held among cricketers and fans alike.
Marsh’s performance in the tournament was notable, with him scoring 441 runs and taking two wickets in 10 matches, but his actions off the field have overshadowed his on-field achievements in this instance.