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After the Pahalgam terror attack, families of soldiers and fans are urging a boycott of the India and Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 clash. Ad rates are already dropping.
The upcoming India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 match, usually one of cricket’s biggest spectacles, is facing strong backlash in India. The recent Pahalgam terror attack has sparked anger nationwide. Families of victims and many fans are urging Indians to boycott the match stay away from stadiums, keep televisions off, and refuse to celebrate even if India wins.
Families of Victims Lead the Call
In Kanpur, Aishanya Dwivedi, wife of fallen soldier Shubham Dwivedi, asked Indians to reject the fixture:
“The BCCI shouldn’t have agreed to a match with Pakistan. What will the money be used for? Pakistan will use it for terrorism. I encourage people to stay away from this.” said to ANI
Her appeal has gained traction online, with boycott hashtags spreading quickly across social media.
Drop in Ad Rates Shows Early Impact
The financial effects are already visible. Ad prices for the India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 clash have fallen by 15% to 20% percent, an unusual dip for what is normally cricket’s hottest property. Attendance is also uncertain. Several senior BCCI officials are skipping the match in Dubai, even though India is the official host country.
The Indian government’s line is consistent: no bilateral cricket with Pakistan, but participation in ICC or ACC events is mandatory. BJP MP Anurag Thakur explained that refusing to play would mean forfeiting points, losing global influence, and possibly harming India’s Olympic ambitions.
The dilemma is clear. Winning on the field could assert India’s strength, but empty stands and silent screens may send a louder message. If the boycott gains momentum, the once-lucrative India–Pakistan cricket rivalry could change forever.
For now, the Asia Cup clash is no longer just about cricket. It is a test of patriotism, grief, and the uneasy balance between sport and national security.
