Cricket has long been a battleground for emotions, pride, and politics, especially between India and Pakistan. But ahead of India’s much-anticipated clash with New Zealand in Dubai, an unexpected trend has emerged – many Pakistani fans are rooting for India.
With India’s population of approximately 1.4 billion and Pakistan’s at 250 million, the number of Indian cricket fans within Pakistan, proportionally, seems staggering. If fan fervor were measured proportionally, Pakistan might just have more supporters of Team India than India itself!’
‘India will win’ – fans speak out
Pakistani YouTubers, including Shaila Khan from Naila Pakistani Reactions and Shoab Chaudhary from Real Entertainment TV, hit the streets to gauge the mood.
While some fans backed the Kiwis, a clear majority saw India as the favoyrites, citing their unbeaten streak, strong batting lineup, and familiarity with Dubai’s conditions.
One fan put it bluntly: ‘If India were to play in Pakistan, they would see how much love we have for them.’
Another, a self-proclaimed Virat Kohli fan, lamented that Pakistan’s absence from the tournament meant missing out on watching him play live.
A teenage girl confidently listed India’s trump cards: ‘Kohli, Shubman Gill, Varun Chakravarti, and Rohit Sharma – this is a dream team. They are sure to win the final.’
The tactical edge
Several fans pointed to India’s ‘home away from home’ advantage. While other teams had to shuttle between Pakistan and Dubai, suffering travel fatigue, India remained stationed in one venue, acclimatising perfectly.
A Kiwis supporter, however, argued that New Zealand is a well-rounded team with a mix of spin, pace, and power hitters like Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra. He predicted a tough battle, but acknowledged India’s dominance. ‘New Zealand will come with a plan, but India hasn’t lost a single match. They are too strong,’ he said.
Another viewer, in response to whether India would still get support if the final were played in Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, said: ‘Honestly? We would still support India.’
The Shami controversy
Away from match predictions, some controversy brewed around Indian pacer Mohammed Shami. A guest on Cricket with Omar Afzaal questioned his religious commitment after a viral video showed him drinking during a match. Afzaal, however, shut down the criticism. ‘Fasting is personal. Who are we to judge?’
Such debates, though unnecessary, highlight the intensity with which cricket – and its players – are scrutinized beyond the game.
The irony of dress codes
Beyond cricket, another striking observation emerged: Pakistani female YouTubers Sana Khan and Tariq Sidra, who roamed Lahore and Karachi’s streets, appeared in stylish outfits – without burqas or niqabs.
In contrast, in India – a secular democracy – some conservative clerics insist on mandatory veiling for Muslim women. This irony wasn’t lost on observers.
A rivalry like no other
Despite political tensions, cricket continues to transcend borders. While Pakistan may be out of the tournament, its fans remain passionately engaged – many throwing their weight behind India.
Come tomorrow, Dubai will witness a high-stakes battle, and whether it is India or New Zealand lifting the trophy, the streets of Pakistan will be buzzing with reactions.
One thing is certain: cricket’s ability to blur boundaries remains unmatched.