India’s wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan gave a sharp yet calm response to the controversy sparked by former cricketer Kirti Azad’s remarks. Kishan spoke to the media after arriving in Patna following India’s triumph in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. He arrived at Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport on Tuesday, just a day after the team’s title-winning performance against New Zealand in Ahmedabad.
At the airport, enthusiastic fans and supporters greeted Kishan. He was asked about Kirti Azad’s controversial comments during a brief media interaction.. The former cricketer had criticized Team India’s visit to a temple after their World Cup win. Azad had questioned why the trophy was taken to a temple and not other religious places like a mosque or gurdwara.
Ishan Kishan, however, chose not to engage with the controversy. Instead, he shifted the conversation back to the team’s remarkable achievement. “I have just won such a wonderful World Cup – please ask better questions,” he said. Kishan focused on the joy of winning the tournament and urged reporters to ask about the experience of the World Cup rather than the controversy surrounding the post-victory celebrations.
The Controversy Surrounding the Visit to Hanuman Temple
The controversy began after India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and ICC chairman Jay Shah visited a Hanuman temple in Ahmedabad with the World Cup trophy. They were seen offering prayers with the trophy after the final win over New Zealand. The visit sparked heated discussions on social media, particularly after Kirti Azad raised concerns about the act.
SHAME ON TEAM INDIA! 😡
When we won the World Cup under Kapil Dev in 1983, we had Hindu Muslim Sikh and Christian in the team.
We brought the trophy to our religious birth place our motherland India Bharat Hindustan
Why The Hell Is The Indian Cricket Trophy is being Dragged.…
— Kirti Azad (@KirtiAzaad) March 9, 2026
Azad questioned why the trophy went to a temple. He suggested sharing it across all faiths. He pointed out that the trophy should also visit a mosque or gurdwara.
Suryakumar, Gambhir, and Other Players’ Religious Visits
Before the semifinal and final matches, some players, including Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, and Gautam Gambhir, visited temples in Ahmedabad. These visits were reportedly part of their personal beliefs and practices before crucial matches. The Hanuman temple they visited is located near the Narendra Modi Stadium, where the final match took place. This has led to further debates about religious practices and their role in public spaces, especially in the context of high-profile events.
Despite the controversy, Ishan Kishan maintained his focus on the team’s collective achievement. He declined to get involved in the debate, emphasizing the success of the entire team. Kishan was instrumental in India’s victory against New Zealand, contributing significantly with the bat in the final. His performance throughout the tournament helped India secure the World Cup.
As the media frenzy surrounding the controversy continued, Ishan Kishan remained focused on the positive aspects of the World Cup win. His approach reflects the discipline and maturity that has made him a key player for India.
A Reminder of the Team’s Journey to Victory
Ishan’s response highlights the importance of staying focused on the bigger picture, especially in the face of distractions. India’s T20 World Cup victory was the result of hard work, teamwork, and determination. The team’s focus on the game and their unity on and off the field helped them achieve this prestigious victory. Kishan’s ability to deflect the controversy shows his commitment to the team’s success rather than getting caught up in distractions.
Ishan Kishan’s reaction to Kirti Azad’s remarks serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and focus, especially in the world of sports. Despite the controversy, the Indian team’s World Cup win remains the focal point of public attention. Ishan Kishan’s ability to steer the conversation back to the team’s achievement and success is a testament to his maturity and professionalism. As India celebrates its victory, it is crucial to remember the hard work that went into winning the tournament and the unity the team has shown.
