MS Dhoni won't be allowed to wear to wear a military-style logo on his wicketkeeping gloves at the World Cup after the International Cricket Council rejected a request from India.
The Hindustan Times newspaper reported on the debate over Dhoni's appearance with the "Balidaan Badge" — an army insignia — on the back of his green gloves during India's opening World Cup win over South Africa in Southampton on Wednesday.
Critics said the logo is from an Indian special forces unit and is in breach of ICC regulations that prevent the display of military, religious or political symbols or uniforms or equipment during games.
Supporters said the 37-year-old Dhoni, who guided India to the 2011 World Cup title, is entitled to display the emblem as an honorary officer of the regiment.
The ICC issued a statement yesterday saying it had advised Indian team officials that the logo was not permitted on Dhoni's gloves.
"The regulations for ICC events do not permit any individual message or logo to be displayed on any items of clothing or equipment," the statement said. "In addition to this, the logo also breaches the regulations in relation to what is permitted on wicketkeeper gloves."
India's next game is against defending champion Australia on Sunday in London.
As per the rules, Dhoni would be reprimanded if he wore the gloves with the insignia on Sunday, when India face Australia in their second group match. The second offence, in case it took place within 12 months, would attract a fine of 25% of the match fee. A third offence would mean a 50% fine of the match fee, and a fourth would see the player losing 75% of his match fee.