The nudging of Sharad Pawar by the Australians evoked sharp criticism from Sachin Tendulkar and former cricketers who described the behaviour as "unpleasant".
Tendulkar, who said he had only heard about the incident from others, said it was "uncalled for" behaviour from the world champions.
"I wasn't watching the proceedings because I was travelling, but from what I heard, it was an unpleasant incident and was uncalled for," the ace batsman said.
"Firstly, it should not have happened. It's important to show respect to a person who is so dear to the cricketers and is involved with cricket. So it's good that we avoid such incidents," he said in response to a specific query.
Kiran More, former India wicketkeeper and selector, said the Aussies owed an apology to the BCCI and Pawar. "I think for what has happened, they should apologise for it... I think it is very important how you treat the dignitaries."
"Pawar is the BCCI President and also a cabinet minister," More, who recently stepped down as chairman of selectors, told a news channel.
He, however, gave some leeway to the Aussies. "It was the first time they won the Champions Trophy. They were happy and they wanted to celebrate. So it might have happened by mistake also," he said.
{{/usCountry}}He, however, gave some leeway to the Aussies. "It was the first time they won the Champions Trophy. They were happy and they wanted to celebrate. So it might have happened by mistake also," he said.
{{/usCountry}}Former India cricketer and coach Anshuman Gaekwad said, "Aussies should not have behaved in such a manner," but the BCCI brass themselves seemed ambivalent. Board Secretary Niranjan Shah described the incident as "unintentional". "I also saw it yesterday but after watching the video footage today, I feel it was unintentional." And then, he added: "Anyway you know how players are once they get on the cricket field. They seem to leave good sense behind."