In a fresh blow to cricket fans across the border, India has banned the live streaming of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025, as diplomatic tensions continue to rise between the two South Asian rivals. The decision marks a significant moment where sports and politics collide, once again putting cricket in the middle of a geopolitical standoff.
FanCode, the official streaming partner of PSL 2025 in India, has quietly halted all live coverage of the tournament. Although no official statement has been released yet, credible sources have confirmed the ban took effect from April 24.
Before the suspension, Indian fans were able to catch the first 13 matches of the league on the FanCode app — but that window has now closed, leaving fans without an official way to watch the rest of the tournament.
Adding to the uncertainty, Sony Sports Network, which holds the TV broadcasting rights for PSL in India, has remained silent on the matter. However, industry insiders expect that Sony may soon suspend broadcasts as well, aligning with the digital blackout initiated by FanCode.
Impact on PSL & Indian Cricket Viewers
The PSL, which kicked off its 10th season on April 11 and runs until May 18, has been gaining traction outside Pakistan, particularly in India, where T20 cricket enjoys a massive fanbase.
But with no alternative digital or TV partner announced, millions of Indian viewers now find themselves cut off from the tournament. The move not only impacts cricket fans but also dents the PSL’s growing international visibility.
Political Climate Behind the Suspension
Sources suggest that the ban is a direct result of worsening diplomatic relations between India and Pakistan. Several former Indian cricketers have even publicly called for a complete suspension of sporting ties with Pakistan, intensifying public sentiment and placing upcoming tournaments — including the Women’s ODI World Cup — under scrutiny.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has yet to make an official comment, but stakeholders will be closely monitoring the situation. Whether an alternate streaming solution can be found for Indian audiences remains to be seen.
As PSL 2025 continues on the field, its off-field drama is just as intense. The interplay between cricket and politics has once again left fans disappointed and raised important questions about the future of sports diplomacy in South Asia.
For now, PSL 2025 will go on — but Indian fans are being forced to miss out, not because of cricket, but because of the ongoing political tensions that continue to cast a long shadow over the game.
