Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Punjab Kings has stirred major controversy ahead of the Pakistan vs India clash in the Asia Cup 2025. The franchise released a promotional banner highlighting the upcoming match at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, but while India’s logo was prominently displayed, Pakistan’s logo was missing.
The omission was quickly noticed by fans, sparking outrage across social media. To add fuel to the fire, the hashtag used in the post referenced only India, leaving Pakistan completely out of the promotion.
Fans React with Anger
The move triggered widespread criticism from cricket fans and analysts, many calling it a politically motivated snub and a deliberate act of disrespect toward Pakistan.
Some supporters expressed disbelief, questioning why Pakistan was erased from a contest that requires two teams. Comments included:
- “Are they afraid to even mention Pakistan before the game?”
- “Why act as if India is playing against an invisible team?”
- “Moves like this only insult your own credibility.”
Not the First Time India-Pakistan Tensions Surface in Cricket
This is not the first instance where cricket has been overshadowed by political tensions between the two nations. Earlier this year, during the World Championship of Legends (WCL), the India Champions team refused to play against Pakistan, both in the group stages and in the semifinals, citing rising bilateral tensions.
Additionally, several former Indian cricketers have repeatedly called for boycotts of matches against Pakistan, adding to the long-running friction.
India’s Form Heading into the Clash
On the cricketing front, India enters Sunday’s high-voltage encounter in fine form. In their opening game, they crushed hosts UAE by nine wickets, bowling them out for just 57 runs and chasing down the target in only 4.3 overs.
With confidence high in the Indian camp, the upcoming showdown against Pakistan has all the makings of another fiery contest – both on and off the field.
