PCB shared slick video to promote PAK v AUS T20Is; but opted to take a jibe at India to sell the series.
Pakistan cricket has used spectacle, symbolism, and subtle provocation to establish the tone for the T20I series. The slick promotional video by PCB has already created a conversation well beyond cricket circles because of what it suggests rather than what it presents.
The video shows Australian tourists in Pakistan and creates excitement for Australia's return to Pakistan while honoring the nation's hospitality, color, and street-level cricket culture. The actor makes fun of India in the video's most talked-about scene, which lasts only a few seconds.
An Australian visitor is playfully reminded, “Handshake bhool gaye aap, lagta hain padosiyo ke paas bhi ruke the” (You forgot the handshake, looks like you had an encounter with our neighbours).”
This was a clear jibe at Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav and the Indian team’s refusal to shake hands with Pakistani players in the Asia Cup 2025 in September in the UAE. This was because of the Pahalgam terrorist attack and subsequent Operation Sindoor undertaken by the Indian armed forces, hitting several military targets in Pakistan.
From a marketing perspective, the approach was successful. The promo went viral on many platforms within hours of its release, eliciting responses that ranged from amusement to criticism. That attention is valuable to the PCB.
A deeper layer of message exists. Pakistan presents itself as friendly, athletic, and self-assured by depicting Australians as being welcomed, discreetly contrasting its strategy with tense regional cricket dynamics.
However, marketing videos are not necessary for India to remain relevant. It's cricket communicates loudly enough on the field, in ICC competitions, and in international tournaments that primarily target Indian spectators.
As India chooses to set new standards in the field, focusing on results and controlling the narrative, Pakistan has opted to chase virality.