Broadcaster stops IND vs PAK women’s cricket match midway to telecast FIFA World Cup, fans get furious

India began their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign in dominant fashion with a comprehensive 64-run victory over Pakistan at Edgbaston, Birmingham, on Sunday, June 14. However, while the action unfolded on the field, a separate controversy reportedly emerged off it, leaving several Pakistani viewers frustrated.

According to reports, Pakistan’s official cricket broadcaster allegedly switched its live coverage from the high-profile India-Pakistan Women’s T20 World Cup clash to a FIFA World Cup 2026 match featuring Germany and Curacao during Pakistan’s run chase that looked inevitable. The move sparked criticism among fans, with many taking to social media to express their disappointment.

A video featuring Pakistani YouTuber Furqan Bhati reacting to the reported broadcast change has since gone viral. In the clip, Bhati questioned the broadcaster’s decision to move away from one of the biggest cricket rivalries in the world.

“What’s going on? Pakistan versus India is being played there, and they’re showing a FIFA World Cup match. Germany is playing? Is Germany in Punjab? Is it in Sindh, Balochistan, or Khyber Pakhtunkhwa? Where exactly is Germany?” Bhati said in the video.

Watch the clip here –

Earlier in the match, India posted an imposing total of 170/6 after being asked to bat first. Star opener Smriti Mandhana led the charge with a fluent 68 off 44 deliveries, while skipper Harmanpreet Kaur added a valuable 36 runs.

Wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh provided the finishing touches with a blistering 34 off just 17 balls, helping India collect 38 runs in the final two overs and push the total beyond Pakistan’s reach.

In response, Pakistan struggled to build momentum and were eventually bowled out for 106 in 17 overs. Deepti Sharma starred with the ball, registering remarkable figures of 5/10 in four overs, the best bowling figures by an Indian woman in T20 International cricket. She also effected a direct-hit run-out to further dent Pakistan’s hopes.

Tournament debutant Shree Charani chipped in with two wickets as India sealed a convincing win to start their World Cup campaign on a high.

India will next face the Netherlands at Old Trafford on June 17 as they look to continue their winning momentum. Pakistan, meanwhile, will aim for a quick turnaround when they take on South Africa in Birmingham on the same day.