The Asia Cup 2025 is less than two weeks away, but instead of building excitement, the tournament has landed in controversy. A promotional video released by the official broadcaster Sony Sports Network has triggered widespread outrage on social media, with many calling for a boycott of the event.
Social Media Outrage Over the Promo
The video was intended to create hype around the much-anticipated India vs Pakistan clash on 14th September. However, critics argue that it is “insensitive” given the recent tensions between the two nations.
Many social media users have accused the organisers, broadcasters, and sponsors of ignoring national sentiments and prioritising profits. The anger has only intensified because the promo features former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag, who had earlier taken a strong stand against Pakistan after the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025.
What the Promo Shows
The promotional video features:
- Suryakumar Yadav, India’s T20 captain
- Shaheen Shah Afridi, Pakistan’s star pacer
- Virender Sehwag, former Indian cricketer
The video depicts an Indian Muslim family watching the India vs Pakistan match at home. As Shaheen bowls to Suryakumar, the family prays for India’s victory. When India wins, the family celebrates, and Sehwag delivers the closing line: “Rag Rag Mein Bharat” (India in Every Vein).
Why It Has Backfired
India vs Pakistan matches have always been the highlight of any tournament, often overshadowing other games. Organisers and broadcasters usually capitalise on this rivalry to boost viewership, a common practice during ICC events too.
But this time, the promo has clashed with ongoing India-Pakistan tensions:
- In April 2025, Pakistani terrorists carried out the Pahalgam attack, killing 26 civilians.
- India responded with Operation Sindoor, destroying multiple terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
- Pakistan retaliated with missile and drone attacks on Indian bases, all of which were intercepted. India countered by striking Pakistani airbases and defence systems.
- A ceasefire is currently in place, but the Indian government has clarified that the operation is only paused, not ended.
In this context, many feel that promoting the India-Pakistan cricket rivalry is disrespectful to the victims of the attack.
#BoycottAsiaCup Trends Online
As soon as the promo went live, hashtags like #BoycottAsiaCup and #ShameOnSonySports started trending. Many users have demanded that the BCCI and broadcasters reconsider their campaign, while others have argued that cricketing ties with Pakistan should be suspended until relations normalise.
Virender Sehwag in the Spotlight
Sehwag’s presence in the promo has made him a target of criticism. Netizens have dug up his earlier posts after the Pahalgam attack, where he praised the Indian Army and said Pakistan would be taught an unforgettable lesson.
Now, many accuse him of contradicting his stance by endorsing a tournament that features Pakistan. While Sehwag has not yet responded, the backlash continues to grow.
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