The build-up to the Pakistan vs India clash in the Asia Cup 2025 has taken an unexpected turn after the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Punjab Kings released a controversial promotional banner. The artwork prominently displayed India’s logo and hashtags celebrating the Indian team while deliberately sidelining Pakistan, sparking anger among cricket fans.
The move was widely criticized on social media, with fans accusing Punjab Kings of bias and disrespect. Many pointed out that the banner portrayed India as if it were playing an invisible opponent, with some mocking it by quoting WWE star John Cena’s catchphrase, “You Can’t See Me,” to highlight Pakistan’s deliberate exclusion.
Karachi Kings Fire Back with Creative Response
In response, Karachi Kings, the 2020 Pakistan Super League (PSL) champions, released their own poster. Their artwork cleverly showed Pakistan’s captain, Salman Ali Agha, playing chess against India’s captain, whose figure was deliberately left in shadow.
This witty comeback was met with overwhelming praise from Pakistani fans, who lauded Karachi Kings for giving a sharp yet humorous reply to Punjab Kings’ controversial banner. Many saw it as a creative way to reaffirm Pakistan’s strong presence ahead of the high-stakes match.
Fans React on Social Media
Social media platforms lit up with heated debate. Some fans slammed the IPL franchise for politicizing cricket, while others hailed Karachi Kings for standing up with a “smart clapback.” The contrasting posters quickly went viral, adding fuel to the hype surrounding the Pakistan vs India showdown in Dubai.
Politics and Cricket: Not a New Story
This is not the first time cricket between India and Pakistan has been overshadowed by off-field controversies. During the World Championship of Legends 2024, the Indian Champions refused to play against Pakistan, citing political tensions. Similarly, several former Indian cricketers in the past have openly called for boycotting matches against Pakistan.
The Anticipation Builds
Despite the controversies, the Asia Cup 2025 clash between Pakistan and India, scheduled for Sunday at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, remains the most anticipated match of the tournament. The war of words and posters off the field has only heightened the drama ahead of the iconic rivalry.
