India’s historic victory in the Women’s ODI World Cup, where the Harmanpreet Kaur-led team defeated South Africa in the final, has touched off a wave of elation across the nation. In the wake of this landmark moment, brands and state governments have come together to honour the women's cricket team. Amid the jubilation, former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has issued a warning, reminding the players not to get carried away by the grand gestures and lavish announcements made in moments of celebration.

“Just a word of caution to the girls. Please don't get disappointed if some of the promised awards don’t come to you. In India, advertisers, and brands and individuals are quick to jump on the bandwagon and try and get free publicity for themselves on the shoulders of the winners,” Gavaskar wrote in his column for Mid-Day.

“Have a look at the full-page advertising and hoardings congratulating the team. Unless they are team and individual players’ sponsors, the rest are only trying to promote their brands or themselves and giving nothing to the ones who have brought glory to Indian cricket.”

Gavaskar, who was part of India’s 1983 World Cup-winning team, reminded the players that history has shown a recurring pattern where promises made sometimes fade with time.

“The 1983 team also were made many promises with loads of coverage in the media then. Almost all never materialised. The media can’t be blamed as they were happy to carry the lofty announcements, not realising that they also were being used by these shameless people. So girls, don’t fret if these shameless ones are using your win to promote themselves."

"The 1983 guys will tell you that so many decades down the line, the love and affection of the simple Indian cricket lover is our greatest wealth and so it will be yours too, when you also put your feet up. Heartiest congratulations once again. The nation is proud of you. Jai Hind."