Australian captain Pat Cummins has caused controversy with his recent remarks regarding Indian fans, claiming that they frequently contact his home address and request money via mail.
During his time in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Cummins stated in a podcast that he got a lot of letters and emails from Indian fans asking for money to cover surgery and hospital bills.
Cummins thought back on his experiences during the competition after leading Sunrisers Hyderabad to the 2024 IPL final, where they were defeated by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).
“Some Indian fans find your receipts from a hospital, that can you please pay for surgery or can you send some money over? You got to feel them,” he remarked.
The cricket community and supporters in India took these comments seriously. Many people have expressed their dissatisfaction and rage on social media, accusing Cummins of being rude and insensitive. Some admirers contended that these requests might be the result of true need given the socioeconomic difficulties that some Indian states are facing.
The controversy arises during the 17th edition of the Indian Premier League, which is still incredibly popular with millions of fans in India and around the globe.
Cummins' remarks might have damaged his rapport with Indian supporters and overshadowed his IPL on-field accomplishments. Since he won the ICC ODI World Cup at the Narendra Modi Stadium by defeating the Indian team in the final last November, his relationship with Indian fans has been tumultuous at best.
Under Mitchell Marsh's stewardship, Australia will begin their T20I World Cup campaign on June 6 in Barbados against Oman. In their group campaign, the Kangaroos will also take on fierce rivals Namibia, Scotland, and England.
