Cricket fever unites fans as Pakistan and India clash in Dubai

“What a shot, Bobby!”

The spontaneous reaction came from an Indian journalist as Babar Azam drove Harshit Rana between point and cover for a boundary.

It was unexpected because India vs. Pakistan is arguably cricket’s biggest rivalry. But for fans around the world, love for the game transcends national rivalries. A match between these two South Asian neighbors is a spectacle everyone craves.

Unfortunately, politics often overshadows the sport—especially between these two nations.

India has not toured Pakistan since the 2008 Asia Cup, while the last bilateral series between the archrivals took place in India in 2012-13, limited to white-ball matches.

Pakistan has visited India twice for ICC events—the 2016 T20 World Cup and the 2023 ODI World Cup. But Pakistani fans haven’t been as lucky.

India refused to travel to Pakistan for the ongoing Champions Trophy, forcing the hosts to stage their games in Dubai.

A New Home for the Rivalry

More than 5 million Indians and Pakistanis live in the United Arab Emirates, and hardly anyone wanted to miss the chance to see the two teams face off at Dubai International Stadium. Tickets sold out within minutes, with fans willing to pay three to four times the original price. Many lined up outside the venue, hoping for a last-minute bargain.

Inside the stadium, the stands slowly filled as the game progressed, and excitement built with each passing moment. Indian fans outnumbered Pakistanis, mirroring the demographics of Dubai and the UAE. But the common sentiment was the desire for a competitive match.

“I’ve traveled across the world to watch cricket, and I wasn’t missing this one at any cost,” said Arun Shah, a realtor from Ahmedabad, India.

“But I have never been to Pakistan, and I wish that one day I will be able to watch cricket in Karachi or Lahore. That’s a dream, and I am hopeful it will be realized one day,” he added, making his way to one of the premium boxes.

Surprisingly, some Indian fans were even hoping for a Pakistan win.

“There would be no fun left in the tournament if Pakistan loses today,” said Indian cricket fan Umesh Varma.

“I want to be back in the stadium on March 9 for an India-Pakistan final, but of course, I’ll be cheering for India,” he added with a smile.

In a few hours, Varma and many like him will know if that dream remains alive.

But regardless of the result, one thing is clear: despite their deep love for the game, fans in both countries won’t be seeing these two teams play on home soil anytime soon.