'Exploiting nationalism to mint money' - Fans slam BCCI over India-Pakistan 2025 Asia Cup coverage

Published - 14 Sept 2025, 20:41 IST | Updated - 14 Sept 2025, 20:56 IST

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) faced a wave of criticism from Indian fans after posting updates about the Asia Cup 2025 clash against Pakistan on social media platform X. This year’s India-Pakistan encounter has garnered attention not just for cricketing reasons, but also due to geopolitical tensions between the countries.

The controversy stems from a Pakistan-sponsored terror attack in Pahalgam, which shook the nation earlier this year. In response, India carried out Operation Sindoor, targeting militant bases across the border. Given these developments, many fans had expected the Indian cricket authorities to refuse participation in the Asia Cup fixture against Pakistan.

Despite public sentiment, the Indian government allowed the Men in Blue to participate in multinational tournaments, while keeping bilateral series on hold. This decision, however, did not sit well with a significant section of cricket followers. Social media users on X called for a boycott of the India-Pakistan match, voicing strong criticism against the BCCI for its role in promoting the game.

Surya, Agha skip handshake before India-Pakistan clash

In this charged atmosphere, a post from the BCCI official handle covering live updates of the match triggered massive trolling and backlash online. Fans expressed their disappointment, claiming that the cricket board should have shown sensitivity given the recent tensions.

Meanwhile, the match is currently underway at the Dubai International Stadium. Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha won the toss and opted to bat first. Both India and Pakistan fielded the same XI that had won their respective opening matches in the Asia Cup 2025. Adding to the tension, Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav notably did not shake hands with Agha at the toss, a moment that has been widely discussed on social media.

Surya, Agha skip handshake before India-Pakistan clash

With geopolitical and sporting stakes both high, this India-Pakistan clash has become one of the most controversial and closely watched matches of the Asia Cup 2025, drawing attention far beyond the cricket field.