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Sports
Venkatesh Prasad says India‑West Indies 5th T20I was meant to invite Deputy CM G Parameshwara
✍️ Mid-Day
🗓 14 Oct 2026, 04:16 AM
👁 8
Former fast‑bowler Venkatesh Prasad claimed that the purpose of India’s fifth T20 International against the West Indies was essentially to extend an invitation to Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara.
Former Indian pacer Venkatesh Prasad, speaking to Mid‑Day, suggested that the fifth T20 International between India and the West Indies was organised primarily as a platform to invite Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara. He implied that the cricketing event served a political purpose beyond the sport itself.
Prasad’s remarks came after the match concluded, highlighting the close ties between state officials and cricketing bodies in the region. While the game itself was contested on the field, the former bowler’s comment points to the broader significance of high‑profile matches in drawing political attention.
The statement has sparked discussion among fans and analysts about the role of politics in scheduling and promoting international fixtures, especially when they are hosted in venues linked to state leadership. No official response from the Karnataka government or the Board of Control for Cricket in India has been recorded yet.
Prasad’s remarks came after the match concluded, highlighting the close ties between state officials and cricketing bodies in the region. While the game itself was contested on the field, the former bowler’s comment points to the broader significance of high‑profile matches in drawing political attention.
The statement has sparked discussion among fans and analysts about the role of politics in scheduling and promoting international fixtures, especially when they are hosted in venues linked to state leadership. No official response from the Karnataka government or the Board of Control for Cricket in India has been recorded yet.