Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Punjab Kings has landed in hot water after releasing a promotional banner for the upcoming Pakistan-India clash in the 2025 Asia Cup.
The match, scheduled to be played on Sunday at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, was advertised with India’s logo and hashtag, but Pakistan’s name and logo were missing.
Game 2️⃣ for the defending champions. Let’s goooo #AsiaCup2025 #INDv pic.twitter.com/BgeoRfJjMo
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) September 11, 2025
This move sparked outrage among fans, who accused the franchise of being politically motivated and disrespectful.
Sports journalist Faizan Lakhani joined the criticism with a witty take. He wrote, “Puraanay waqto main mashriqi khawateen apne husband ka naam nahee layti thee, sharma si jaati thee. @PunjabKingsIPL ne kuch aisa hee kaam kia hai, sharma gaye woh naam lainay main.”
Puraanay waqto main mashriqi khawateen apne husband ka naam nahee layti thee, sharma si jaati thee. @PunjabKingsIPL ne kuch aisa hee kaam kia hai, sharma gaye woh naam lainay main.
— Faizan Lakhani (@faizanlakhani) September 12, 2025
Cricket fans also flooded social media with sarcastic jabs. One user wrote, “Picture ki jaga 6-0 likh data.” Another commented, “PAF vs IAF 6-0.” A third added, “India vs Rafale Hunters.”
The reference to 6-0 points to Pakistan Air Force shooting down six Indian jets, including three Rafales, during aerial clashes in May.
Others mocked India’s nerves ahead of the contest. One fan wrote, “India Pakistan k flag se hi khof khata dar ka mahol.” Another added, “Empty mean Punjab trophy cabinet.”
This is not the first time politics has overshadowed a Pakistan-India game. Earlier this year, during the World Championship of Legends, India Champions refused to face Pakistan in both the group stage and semifinal, citing tensions between the two nations. Several former Indian cricketers have also pushed for boycotts against Pakistan across different forums.
On the cricketing front, India comes into Sunday’s clash full of confidence after thrashing the UAE by nine wickets in their opener. They bowled the hosts out for just 57 runs and chased the target in only 4.3 overs. Pakistan will launch their campaign on Friday against Oman at the same venue.
Overall, India and Pakistan have met 13 times in T20 internationals. India leads the rivalry 10–3. Their last meeting was during the ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai earlier this year, where India won by six wickets.