Please do not believe WhatsApp forwards, I have no connection to cricket whatsoever: Ratan Tata

Rumours were circulating that Ratan Tata, a prominent Indian businessman, was providing financial assistance to Afghan cricketer Rashid Khan. These rumours originated from social media posts claiming that Ratan gave INR 10 crore to Rashid after he was fined ₹55 lakh by the ICC for displaying the Indian flag during celebrations following Afghanistan's victory over Pakistan in the Cricket World Cup 2023.

However, Ratan has categorically denied any involvement in cricket and clarified that he has not made any suggestions to the ICC or any cricketing authority regarding fines or rewards for players. He emphasised that he has no connection to cricket whatsoever and urged people to rely on official platforms for accurate information rather than rumours spread through platforms like WhatsApp.

"I have made no suggestions to the ICC or any cricket faculty about any cricket member regarding a fine or reward to any players. I have no connection to cricket whatsoever. Please do not believe WhatsApp forwards and videos of such nature unless they come from my official platforms," Ratan Tata wrote on 'X'.

I have made no suggestions to the ICC or any cricket faculty about any cricket member regarding a fine or reward to any players.

I have no connection to cricket whatsoever

Please do not believe WhatsApp forwards and videos of such nature unless they come from my official…

— Ratan N. Tata (@RNTata2000) October 30, 2023

"I congratulate Sri Ratan Tata for extending financial support to cricketer Rashid Khan who has been fined ₹ 55 lacs by ICC for braving the Bhartiya flag on his chest while celebrating victory over Pakistan," a user wrote on October 27.

Another claimed, "Pakistan Complain to ICC against Rashid Khan during his victory celebration with indian flag ICC fine 55 lakh against Rashid Khan but Ratan Tata declare 10 crores to Rashid Khan."

While some individuals expressed support for Mr Tata's alleged gesture towards Rashid Khan, praising him for extending financial aid, it is important to note that Ratan Tata has made no financial commitments to any cricketing body or players.

Afghanistan are currently playing against Sri Lanka in the 31st match of the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023 at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune and looking all set to win their third game of the tournament.