India versus Pakistan cricket matches are often more than just sport. They carry history, rivalry and raw emotion. But with the Asia Cup 2025 only a month away, excitement has been overshadowed by controversy over a promotional video.
A promo released by Sony Sports Network, featuring former cricketer Virender Sehwag, was intended to build anticipation for the group stage clash on 14 September in Dubai.
Instead, it has drawn heavy criticism from sections of the public who believe the timing is insensitive, coming so soon after the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people were killed.
The memory of the attack remains fresh, and India’s recent Operation Sindoor in May has added to the tense national mood. For many, celebrating a cricket match against Pakistan feels inappropriate under the circumstances.
Some fans have expressed disappointment with Sehwag’s involvement, with one social media user calling it “really sad” and reminding others not to forget the horror of the attack on Hindu tourists.
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Others argued that “terror and entertainment cannot go together,” vowing to boycott the match entirely. A number of viewers also criticised both the BCCI and Sehwag, branding the promotion “a shame.”
The controversy has reignited a wider debate over whether India should play Pakistan at all, in any format. The Indian government has repeatedly said there will be no bilateral series between the two countries, but matches in ICC and ACC tournaments such as the Asia Cup will continue.
For many, this sends mixed signals, leaving fans torn between their love for cricket and the pain caused by real-world events.
Despite the backlash, the match is set to go ahead. Suryakumar Yadav’s Indian team will face Pakistan in Dubai in what is expected to be the most watched encounter of the tournament.
The lingering question is whether online outrage will translate into a genuine boycott, or whether the passion of cricket will ultimately prevail when the first ball is bowled.
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