NEW DELHI: Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP and former India cricketer Kirti Azad objected to the telecast of a condom advertisement during the India-England T20I match, arguing that such “adult advertisements” should not be aired during live cricket broadcasts watched by millions of families and children.Calling on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to take note of the issue, Azad said the timing of the advertisement was inappropriate.In a post on X, Azad wrote, “Children are watching live the international T20 match between India versus England being played at Old Trafford. Isn’t it a shame that an adult advertisement of Durex comes on the screen. BCCI to take note.”Speaking to reporters later, Azad said the issue was not about a particular brand but about the suitability of such advertisements during live cricket broadcasts watched by families.“This is an adult advertisement. Children watch the match with their parents. They are children, under 16 years old. In this country, cricket is considered like a religion. When I was watching it, 44 crore people were watching it, and an adult advertisement appeared during the match,” he said.He said such advertisements put parents in an uncomfortable position while raising questions among children.“Parents don’t know where to look, and children don’t understand it. They ask what it is. What effect will it have on their minds? This is a very big question, and the BCCI should answer it. How are they allowing all this?” Azad said.The TMC MP also questioned why adult advertisements were being aired during live cricket when advertisements related to alcohol and cigarettes are prohibited.“Alcohol and cigarette advertisements are all banned, and they should be. So why adult advertisements? And that too between overs. I raise a big question over its validity,” he said. Azad said the BCCI should examine the issue and take appropriate action.“The BCCI has to look into it. If needed, then yes, I will raise it in Parliament. I will definitely raise it,” he added.The India tour of England is being held from July 1 to July 19, featuring a five-match T20I series followed by a three-match ODI series across various venues in England and Wales. England currently lead the T20I series 1-0 after their victory at Old Trafford.
