When a nation bleeds, should cricket still bat on?
Trade is cut.
Cultural ties are frozen.
Water treaties are restricted.
Yet cricket? Still on.
Because nothing sells like “India vs Pakistan.”
Because TRPs apparently matter more than tears.
Let’s not sugarcoat it. This isn’t just a game.
It’s a billion-dollar carnival built on our emotions.
Every time these teams meet, the script is predictable:
– Fireworks and hashtags.
– “Biggest rivalry” slogans.
– Sponsors lining up to cash in.
But is this match necessary for the nation… or only for the money?
👉 Boards make crores.
👉 Broadcasters glorify conflict because war sells better than skill.
👉 Fans get played. Their patriotism turned into marketing currency.
If soldiers can sacrifice everything on the border, why can’t the cricket board sacrifice one tournament for principle?
Cricket was never bigger than the nation.
National interest is not a backdrop for entertainment.
Talent should be celebrated, but not at the cost of dignity.
And here’s the bitter truth: every cheer in the stadium will drown out the silence of families who lost loved ones just months ago.
So the real question isn’t whether India should play Pakistan.
The real question is: At what cost?
