The India-Pakistan cricket rivalry has never been just about the game. In 2025, it became even more political and emotional, following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians and India’s military response, Operation Sindoor.
Politics and Public Anger
When India faced Pakistan in the Asia Cup shortly after these events, the atmosphere was tense. Many Indians, including political parties like Congress, AAP, and Shiv Sena (UBT), demanded a boycott. Social media was full of calls like #BoycottIndvsPak, with critics saying the match insulted the victims of the attack.
However, the Indian government clarified that while bilateral series with Pakistan will not happen, India must take part in ICC and ACC tournaments, as skipping them would break international commitments. Union Minister Manohar Lal even said cricket and military matters are “two different issues.”
The Handshake Controversy
After India’s win, captain Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube walked off the field without shaking hands with Pakistani players. Yadav dedicated the victory to the Pahalgam victims and the armed forces, saying some things were “bigger than sportsmanship.”
This sparked anger in Pakistan. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) threatened to boycott the Asia Cup altogether. Former PCB Chairman Najam Sethi later admitted he stopped the boycott because it could have led to sanctions, financial losses, and serious damage to Pakistan’s cricket reputation.
The Money Factor
Despite politics, the matches went ahead for one main reason: money. India-Pakistan games are the most profitable in cricket, bringing in huge revenues for broadcasters, sponsors, and the cricket boards. One match can generate crores of rupees, with advertising rates touching ₹4,800 per second.
ICC and ACC often design tournaments to ensure at least two India-Pakistan matches, since these fixtures are the “golden goose” of world cricket.
Risks of a Boycott
If India had boycotted, it would have lost points or even the trophy, and risked its global sports image. If Pakistan had boycotted, it stood to lose $15 million in broadcast revenue and face possible sanctions from ICC and ACC.
Media and Nationalism
Adding fuel to the fire, media and social media in both countries portrayed the match as “war without shooting.” Hashtags, debates, and TV coverage turned cricket into a political battlefield, raising emotions rather than calming them.
The Asia Cup 2025 shows that India-Pakistan cricket is no longer just a game. It is shaped by politics, public anger, financial stakes, and media narratives. Both nations talk tough, but in the end, neither is willing to give up the money and global stage these matches provide.
Headlyne app makes sure that as soon as a headline is created, it reaches straight to your phone without wasting any time! Stay curious and informed with us.
Download the Headlyne app today.
