TMC MP Kirti Azad urges BCCI to stop adult ads during live cricket matches

New Delhi: Trinamool Congress MP and former cricketer Kirti Azad has raised objections to the broadcast of an advertisement for a condom brand during the India-England T20I match on July 9, 2025. The advertisement aired during the first T20I at Old Trafford, Manchester, which was watched by millions of viewers including children.

In a post on social media platform 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.” He urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to examine the issue.

Speaking to reporters later, Azad said his concern was not about a specific brand but the appropriateness of such advertisements during live cricket broadcasts that are 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.

Azad said these advertisements put parents in an uncomfortable situation 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?” he added.

The MP also questioned why adult advertisements are allowed during cricket broadcasts while advertisements for 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 noted that if necessary, he would raise the matter in Parliament. “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, running from July 1 to July 19, 2025, includes a five-match T20I series and a three-match ODI series. England lead the T20I series 1-0 after winning the first match. As of now, the BCCI has not issued a response to Azad’s remarks.