The countdown to the much anticipated Asia Cup 2025 has officially begun. Kicking off on September 9th in the United Arab Emirates, the tournament will feature eight teams battling for cricket supremacy.
But amidst the excitement, a storm has erupted over the official promotional video released by broadcasters Sony Sports Network in India.
The promo vividly highlights the much anticipated India vs Pakistan clash, a fixture that always stirs passions across the cricketing world. It showcases key moments, including iconic images of Team India’s captain, Suryakumar Yadav, and Pakistan’s fast bowler Shahin Shah Afridi in action.
The legendary Virender Sehwag also makes a memorable appearance, adding to the emotional weight of the clip.
Designed to amplify the thrill and intensity of the rivalry, the promo culminates with a dramatic finish: Suryakumar Yadav hitting a six off Shahin Shah Afridi’s last ball to seal India’s victory.
The scene then shifts to a joyful Muslim uncle emerging outside, with a young girl exclaiming, “Dadu, we’ve won!” The uncle’s face lights up with happiness, and Sehwag’s voice echoes, “Above all, the Almighty has heard your prayers.” The montage ends with the chorus of millions of Indian cricket fans “140 crore hearts beating as one.”
However, this emotional portrayal has ignited a firestorm on social media. Critics argue that glamorizing this high octane rivalry, especially in the current tense geopolitical climate, is insensitive and unnecessary.
Some fans have even issued threats to boycott the tournament altogether, voicing their displeasure at the depiction of the India vs Pakistan encounter.
The controversy gains further weight given the context. Following the Pulwama attack, there were widespread calls to cancel or boycott the India vs Pakistan match. Yet, the fixture remains scheduled for September 14th in Dubai, reaffirming its place in the tournament’s fixture list.
This promotional uproar is not just about a cricket clip; it taps into deep seated emotions and national sentiments. Many argue that the promo risks stoking old rivalries and undermines the spirit of sportsmanship.
Meanwhile, others criticize Sony Sports Network for releasing such a provocative advertisement, suggesting it’s a calculated move to boost viewership amid ongoing tensions.
It’s worth noting that India and Pakistan don’t compete in bilateral series; their only encounters are on the international stage ICC and ACC tournaments.
The Asia Cup 2025, featuring two groups of four teams each, is set to be a battleground where these historic rivals will clash once again. India and Pakistan are placed in the same group Group A alongside Oman and the UAE, with their match scheduled for September 14th in Dubai.
As the tournament approaches, emotions continue to run high. Whether this promo will serve as a rallying cry or deepen divides remains to be seen.
But one thing is clear: the Asia Cup 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most watched and most controversial cricketing events in recent memory.
