Abrar Ahmed provokes India with Balakot reference, Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub join too

Abrar Ahmed sparks fresh controversy [Source: @HassanAbbasian/X.com]

The dispute between India and Pakistan at the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 has escalated further into an ugly situation. Although the fate of the match is still in question, the drama off the field is increasing.

This time, Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed is in the spotlight after a video went viral on social media. His remarks, seen as a political dig at India, have sparked anger in India about mixing politics with cricket. 

Abrar Ahmed sparks fresh outrage with ‘tea’ video

Ahead of the T20 World Cup, Abrar Ahmed has once again landed himself in controversy after a video featuring Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub surfaced online. 

In the clip, Saim Ayub is seen holding a cup of tea, while Abrar makes comments that many believe are aimed at mocking India. 

The video quickly went viral, especially because of the timing. The India vs Pakistan match scheduled for February 15 is already under threat due to the latter’s decision to boycott the game. 

Hassan Abbasian

@HassanAbbasian

Abrar Ahmed still trolling the neighbours 😭😭

Feb 3, 2026, 4:50 PM

Fans feel Abrar’s comments only add fuel to an already tense situation. Many on social media called the act unnecessary and provocative. 

Critics said such behaviour harms the spirit of the game. Instead of focusing on cricket, players are being dragged into political narratives. 

‘Tea’ jibe brings back bitter memories

The backlash grew stronger because the “tea” reference is linked to a painful episode from 2019. During heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, Indian Air Force pilot Abhinandan Varthaman was captured and later released. 

A video of him calmly drinking tea went viral at the time, and the phrase “Fantastic Tea” became widely known. 

Abrar Ahmed had earlier posted a picture with a cup of tea in 2025, which was also seen as mocking that incident. The resurfacing of similar imagery has upset many Indian fans again. They feel cricket should not be used to reopen old wounds or score cheap points online.

Former players and fans have repeated the same message. Politics and cricket should stay separate. On-field rivalry is fine, but personal or political digs only damage the game’s image.

Despite all this, Pakistan players, including Abrar, refuse to learn a lesson. They continue to incite not only Indian players but also fans at large.

PCB under pressure as ICC waits for clarity

The controversy comes at a time when the PCB is already under pressure. The Pakistan board has still not sent any formal written communication to the ICC about its decision to boycott the India match. 

Reports suggest that social media statements or government signals do not count as official notice. The ICC has made its stance clear. Selective participation goes against the spirit of global tournaments.

With broadcasters, sponsors, and other boards watching closely, Pakistan risks facing serious consequences. Financial penalties and legal trouble are also being discussed.

On top of that, incidents like Abrar Ahmed’s video do not help Pakistan’s case. Instead of calming tensions, they create more negative headlines.