The PCB Australia series promo handshake controversy has reignited tensions between India and Pakistan, proving once again that cricketing rivalries often spill beyond the boundary ropes. Despite Pakistan losing three consecutive matches to India in the Asia Cup 2025, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has found itself under fire for a promotional video that many fans see as an unnecessary and distasteful dig at India.
Released ahead of Pakistan’s home series against Australia, the promo has sparked debate on social media, with critics questioning the timing, intent, and tone of the message.
What the PCB Promo Shows
The video begins on a warm note, showcasing Pakistan’s hospitality through the eyes of an Australian tourist. However, the final moments shift the narrative. A cab driver jokingly remarks to the tourist:
“Handshake bhool gaye aap, lagta hain padosiyo ke paas bhi ruke the.”
Roughly translated, the line hints at India and indirectly mocks the now-infamous handshake refusal during the Asia Cup 2025. While some fans brushed it off as banter, others felt the Pakistan Cricket Board crossed a line by approving the script.
Why the Handshake Controversy Still Hurts
The roots of the controversy lie in India’s dominant Asia Cup 2025 campaign, where they defeated Pakistan three times. Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav refused to shake hands with Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha, citing heightened tensions between the two nations.
Relations worsened after the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor, which deeply impacted public sentiment in India. On-field incidents, including objectionable celebrations by Haris Rauf and a gun gesture by Sahibzada Farhan, further fueled the hostility.
Given this backdrop, many Indian fans believe the no-handshake stance was a symbolic protest rather than unsportsmanlike behavior.
Trophy Row Adds to PCB’s Image Problem
Adding to the controversy, PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi, who also heads the ACC, has yet to hand over the Asia Cup trophy to India. Reports suggest India declined to receive it from Naqvi, who later asked the team to collect it from his Dubai office. This episode has only intensified criticism of the PCB’s conduct.
Fan Reactions and Expert View
Social media reactions were swift and divided:
Indian fans called the promo “petty” and “unnecessary.”
Some neutral viewers labeled it “cheap marketing.”
A few Pakistani fans defended it as harmless humor.
Cricket analysts argue that boards should focus on promoting the sport, not stoking political or emotional rivalries. One former cricketer noted, “When administrators endorse such narratives, it reflects poorly on the game’s spirit.”
What’s Next for India vs Pakistan
The rivalry is far from cooling down. India and Pakistan are set to clash again on 15 February 2026 in the T20 World Cup in Colombo. Coincidentally, the same day will also feature an India vs Pakistan match in the Women’s Asia Cup Rising Stars tournament.
The PCB Australia series promo handshake controversy highlights how unresolved tensions continue to shape cricket narratives in South Asia. While rivalry adds drama to the sport, fans expect cricket boards to rise above grudges. With high-stakes matches ahead, the focus should return to performances on the field—not provocative promos off it.
