Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Jul 5: Trinamool Congress MP and former India cricketer Kirti Azad has questioned the telecast of a condom advertisement during the live broadcast of the India-England second T20 International, saying such advertisements are inappropriate during matches watched by millions of children and families.

In a post on X, Azad, a member of India's 1983 World Cup-winning team, urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to take note of the issue.

"Children are watching the international T20 match between India and England being played at Old Trafford. Isn't it a shame that an adult advertisement of Durex comes on the screen? BCCI should take note," he wrote.

Speaking to IANS, Azad said cricket enjoys the status of a religion in India and is watched by families, including children below the age of 16. He questioned the suitability of broadcasting adult-oriented advertisements during live matches.

He argued that while advertisements for tobacco and alcohol are prohibited, similar scrutiny should be applied to adult advertisements, especially when they are aired between overs during high-profile cricket matches.

Azad said parents often face uncomfortable situations when children ask questions about such advertisements and called on the BCCI to explain how such commercials were permitted during the broadcast.

Stating that he may raise the issue in Parliament if necessary, Azad said he expected the BCCI to examine the matter and provide clarity.

The BCCI and the streaming platform had not issued any statement on the issue at the time of reporting.

Meanwhile, England defeated India by four wickets in the second T20I at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester. Chasing 191, the hosts reached the target in 19 overs, with Jacob Bethell remaining unbeaten on 76 off 46 balls, to level the five-match series.