Nasser Hussain Slams ICC’s “Double Standards,” Calls for Equal Treatment in Cricket

Former England captain **Nasser Hussain** has spoken out strongly against what he described as the **ICC’s double standards**, questioning how the governing body would have reacted if India had demanded a change of venue instead of Bangladesh.

Hussain asked whether the ICC would have excluded India from an event under similar circumstances, adding that Bangladesh and Pakistan must be treated **equally**, just as India is. “If India had made the same demand, what would the ICC have done?” he questioned.

The former England skipper said that **Bangladesh stood firm on its position and supported its player**, calling it the right stance. He also praised Pakistan for backing Bangladesh, saying it was a positive step. “Someone has to stand up and say that there has been enough politics—now let us play cricket,” he remarked.

Nasser Hussain further criticized India’s decision to suddenly drop **Mustafizur Rahman**, alleging it was due to political pressure. He warned that politics has crept into the game, citing incidents such as teams refusing to shake hands or declining trophies.

“If you continue to put pressure on Pakistan and Bangladesh, cricket will be destroyed,” Hussain said, adding that despite facing numerous restrictions, **Pakistan continues to perform at a high level**, which reflects the strength and resilience of its cricketing system.