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The India–Pakistan cricket rivalry is one of the most intense in world sport, but is it really one-sided? We separate fact from myth, looking at history, records, and global impact.
The Origin of the Rivalry
India and Pakistan first faced each other in 1952, when Pakistan toured India for a Test series. Since then, the rivalry has grown into one of the most watched sporting events in the world. While politics and history between the two nations have added intensity, the cricketing battles themselves have produced unforgettable moments — from Javed Miandad’s last-ball six in Sharjah (1986) to India’s triumph in the 2007 T20 World Cup final.
✅ Fact: The two sides have not played a bilateral Test series since 2007 due to political tensions. Meetings are now restricted mainly to ICC events and Asia Cup tournaments.
Who Has the Better Record?
A common myth is that India has always dominated Pakistan. The reality is more balanced.
- ODIs: As of 2025, Pakistan has historically won more ODIs against India, though India has narrowed the gap significantly in recent years.
- Tests: Pakistan had the edge in the 1980s and 1990s, but India’s rise since the 2000s has balanced things.
- T20Is: India has a clear advantage, including victories in the 2007 T20 World Cup final and the 2022 T20 World Cup thriller in Melbourne.
✅ Fact: In ICC World Cups (ODI + T20), India has a dominant record — Pakistan has beaten India only once in World Cup history, at the 2021 T20 World Cup in Dubai.
The Viewership Numbers
Another myth is that India–Pakistan cricket is just another game. In truth, it’s one of the most-watched sporting events globally.
- The 2019 ODI World Cup match between India and Pakistan at Old Trafford recorded a global TV audience of 273 million viewers, with over 50 million live streams.
- This viewership rivals even the Super Bowl and UEFA Champions League finals.
✅ Fact: No other cricket match consistently attracts such massive global audiences.
Beyond the Hype
It’s often said that India–Pakistan cricket is only about hostility. While national pride is strong, players on both sides have repeatedly stressed mutual respect. Legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Wasim Akram, Virat Kohli, and Shahid Afridi have shared warm off-field relations.
✅ Fact: Despite political tensions, Indo-Pak cricket has also been a symbol of sportsmanship and diplomacy. Matches in Chennai (1999) and Mohali (2011 World Cup semi-final) saw both sets of fans applauding the opposition.
Conclusion
The India–Pakistan cricket rivalry is a blend of fact and myth. While it carries the weight of history and politics, the numbers show a balanced contest, with each team enjoying periods of dominance. What’s undeniable is the global excitement these matches create.
For fans, it’s more than runs and wickets — it’s a shared sporting tradition that unites billions in anticipation, passion, and sometimes heartbreak. And that’s what makes the rivalry truly iconic.
✅ Verdict
The India–Pakistan rivalry is one of cricket’s fiercest and most-watched. However, myths about one-sided dominance don’t match the facts.