cricket rivalry between India And Pakistan has found a fresh flashpoint, and this time, it’s not on the pitch. Ahead of AustraliaThe much-awaited T20I tour of Pakistan In 2026, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Released a promotional video which has created a stir on social media. What was intended to be a display of traditional hospitality soon turned into a viral controversy as fans noticed the cheeky reference to India’s recent “no-handshake” policy. 2025 asia cup.
As both teams prepare for the upcoming ICC T20 World CupThis off-field banter has added a layer of intensity to the series, proving that neighborly tensions remain as high as ever in the world of cricket.
Fans mock PCB’s sarcastic comment on India
The promotional clip released by PCB shows an Australian tourist exploring the vibrant streets of Pakistan, experiencing the country’s renowned hospitality. In one scene, Pakistan’s T20I captain, salman ali agaWhile paying for the tourist’s dinner, he is seen stating warmly, βYou are our guest.β.
However, the real controversy began during a scene involving a local taxi driver. As the tourist prepares to leave the cab, the driver calls him back with a pointed comment: “Friend, you forgot to shake hands! Looks like you were staying with your neighbor too.” (Friend, you forgot to shake hands! Looks like you are staying with the neighbors too). This is a direct attack on the Indian team’s stance during the 2025 Asia Cup, where Indian players reportedly avoided shaking hands with their Pakistani counterparts following rising geopolitical tensions and security concerns.
No one paid attention to the excavation. Indian fans immediately flooded social media mocking the PCB.living in the pastβ And using India’s name to gain traction for a bilateral series that also does not include the Men in Blue.
Also read: Pakistan postpones preparations for 2026 T20 World Cup to show solidarity with Bangladesh
Here’s how fans reacted:
So let me get this straight. This is an advertisement for a series between Pakistan and Australia.
India is not playing. Not touring India. India is nowhere near the venue. Yet, the punchline of your entire promo is about us?
1. “Passion” is real
As an Indian fan, firstβ¦ https://t.co/vAe5y8yiH4– Kartik Kannan (@kartik_kannan) 22 January 2026
reel vs reality https://t.co/JSRfI3aDWF pic.twitter.com/cZeXr28Ygm
– JoyBoy.kt π (@TweetECricket) 21 January 2026
Also for promotion of own series #India Had to take the name of⦠what poverty is this?#Pakistan https://t.co/TihY5jQfG5
β Jatin Sharma (@jatincricket) 21 January 2026
India remains rent free in their empty minds. https://t.co/4JXFX1cfZe
– Karan (@karanXtwt) 22 January 2026
Even a third quality promotion of a cricket bilateral would have to include India to make it entertaining. https://t.co/ezMUS9z6Ed
– wokeflix (@wokeflix) 21 January 2026
My favorite part of this promo is the kebab. https://t.co/4aUBXSPRip
– Kashish (@crickashish217) 22 January 2026
By not handshake, BCCI has given such a big blow that PCB and Hagga ji are still crying.ππ·π
– Hagga ji want 15 match, Hagga ji want USA match π·ππ#bangladeshcricket #INDvNZ #PakistanCricket https://t.co/A5bxTA9v8A
β ππ’ππ¬π‘. (@CrickRitesh_18) 21 January 2026
So much marketing for a three day series https://t.co/oX16UFyrnx
– John Doe (@wellandtruly) 21 January 2026
I am so jealous of the handshake that it must be visible even in dreams. https://t.co/Jd5PZqMLxN
– Umaβ (@mahicoholic7) 21 January 2026
Their obsession with us for a series we’re not even playing ??? https://t.co/tz0LX0DfTR
β Indian Army (@BhartArmy) 22 January 2026
Australia will tour Pakistan for a three-match T20 series
This three-match T20I series serves as the final dress rehearsal for both countries before they leave for ICC T20 World Cup 2026Hosted by India and Sri Lanka. All matches are scheduled to be played under lights at the iconic stadium Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
Australian side led Michelle MarshMany key pillars will be missing. love the stars pat cummins, Josh HazlewoodAnd glen maxwell Stayed here to take charge or to recover from injuries. This has opened the door to new talent, including Mahali Beardman And jack edwardsTo prove its mettle in subcontinental conditions. For Pakistan, this series is a chance for Agha to strengthen his leadership and for the team to find its rhythm ahead of the opening World Cup in Sri Lanka.
