Koffee Storm & BCCI Suspension: Hardik Pandya Now Loses a Sponsor

Hardik Pandya loses a sponsor following his controversial comments on Koffee With Karan.

File picture of Hardik Pandya who has been suspended by the BCCI for his comments on a TV show.

(Photo: Reuters)

Hardik Pandya is on his way back to India to face an enquiry following his controversial comments on a TV show that was aired on last Sunday.

BCCI, in an official statement on Friday, said it had called back both Pandya and KL Rahul from the ongoing tour of Australia and suspended them till the completion of the enquiry.

However, there was more trouble in store for Pandya. The all-rounder has had mens grooming products brand Gillette withdraw their sponsorship contract, according to Times of India. “Hardik Pandya's recent comments do not reflect the values Gillette. We have suspended our association with Hardik until we decide on the further course of action," the website quoted a company spokesperson as saying.

In the BCCI’s statement on Friday, the board also stated that both players were not allowed to make any public appearances around cricket events, till the verdict of the enquiry.

“In terms of Rule 41(6) of the BCCI Constitution, the players are hereby suspended with immediate effect from participating in any manner whatsoever in any match or function or event or activity that is authorized, organized, sanctioned, recognized or supported in any way by the BCCI, the ICC or any State Association, until final adjudication of the matter,” read the official mail.