A recent video of Indian cricketer Suryakumar Yadav during India’s South Africa tour has taken social media by storm. In the video, a South African fan with Pakistani roots poses a politically sensitive question, asking Yadav why he hasn’t visited Pakistan. This query indirectly references a broader debate currently impacting the cricketing world.
The exchange begins with the fan, who remains off-camera, asking Yadav, “Can you tell me one thing, why are you not coming to Pakistan?”
Yadav, with characteristic poise, replies, “Arre bhaiya, it is not in our hands,” implying that such decisions fall outside players’ jurisdiction and are managed by governing bodies. His casual, yet candid, response has sparked a flurry of reactions, especially in Pakistani media.
The backdrop to this incident includes recent reports suggesting that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has chosen not to send the Indian team to Pakistan for the upcoming Champions Trophy- 2025.
According to Pakistani news sources, the BCCI has formally informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) of this stance. The ICC has communicated the decision to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in writing. This development has caused disappointment and frustration among Pakistani cricket fans, many of whom have expressed their dismay on social media.
The video has prompted a strong media response in Pakistan, where fans and analysts alike are voicing concerns over the implications of India’s absence. Many fans have argued that Pakistan deserves fair participation from all cricketing nations when hosting international events.
There is also a call for Pakistan to respond assertively, with some commentators underscoring the importance of hosting international tournaments as a matter of national pride.
While the interaction between Suryakumar Yadav and the fan was lighthearted, it highlights the diplomatic challenges players face when dealing with politically sensitive questions. The incident serves as a reminder of the complex dynamics surrounding international cricket in South Asia and has intensified discussions about India’s participation in Pakistan-hosted tournaments.
