The controversy surrounding the 69 in cricket: The number 69 is not banned in cricket, but some cricket boards do not allow players to wear it due to its dual meaning. Here's why.
What is the controversy about number 69 in cricket?
What Is the Controversy About Number 69 In Cricket? The number 69 is not banned in cricket, nor is there any official ban on it by the International Cricket Council (ICC). However, some national cricket boards do not allow the use of this number. The reason behind this is the double meaning and sexual connotations of this number. Some cricket boards consider it inappropriate. Usually, players choose the number based on their choice or belief, provided that no other player on the team has that number. Here we are going to tell you what the controversy is about the number 69 in cricket and why some cricket boards do not allow the use of this number.
What is the controversy about number 69 in cricket?
There is no official international ban on the number 69 in cricket, but some national boards, such as the New Zealand Cricket Board, do not allow the number to be used. It is considered controversial due to its sexual connotation. Players are generally allowed to choose any number between 1 and 99, provided that number is not already assigned to another active player.
What is the New Zealand Cricket Board's stance on number 69?
The New Zealand Cricket Board is one of the boards that has banned this number. Fast bowler Lockie Ferguson wore jersey number 69 during his domestic career, but when he made his international debut for New Zealand, he was asked to change the number. The board clarified that 69 is the only number between 1 and 99 that has been banned due to its sexual connotations.
What is the policy of other cricket boards on number 69?
Apart from the New Zealand Cricket Board, no other cricket board has publicly confirmed a ban on the number 69, but many players voluntarily choose not to use it to avoid controversy. The number is also rarely seen in countries like England and Australia, but there is no controversy surrounding it in Indian cricket. Currently, Indian player Karun Nair wears jersey number 69.
