A promotional video released by the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has sparked diplomatic and administrative tensions after it allegedly depicted Pakistan-administered Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan as part of India on a map.
Islamabad has strongly objected to the depiction, raising concerns that the controversy could further strain relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan, which have already been tense in recent months.
The controversy comes just days before a three-match series between India and Afghanistan is scheduled to begin in New Delhi. The ACB shared the promotional video on its official X account on Sunday ahead of the series.
PCB Raises Concern With Foreign Ministry
Sources cited by CNN-News18 said the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has conveyed its concerns about the map to Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry.
The sources added that Islamabad could potentially raise the issue at the international level if it chooses to do so. However, no official announcement has been made on the matter so far.
Tensions Between Kabul and Islamabad
Relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan have deteriorated significantly, with the two sides involved in tensions over border clashes and airstrikes.
Pakistan has repeatedly accused the Afghan Taliban of providing shelter to Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which Islamabad holds responsible for several deadly attacks inside Pakistan.
Against this backdrop, the ACB’s promotional material has added another contentious issue to an already sensitive relationship.
ACB Promotes India-Afghanistan Series
Alongside the video, the Afghanistan Cricket Board posted a message highlighting the significance of the upcoming series.
“A series that will once again bring two countries together,” the post said, describing the matches as a meeting point for the two nations’ shared history, culture and passion for cricket.
The board added that the games were “not just matches,” but moments filled with emotion, excitement and significance, with the Afghanistan team taking the field carrying the hopes and pride of millions of people.
The three matches are scheduled for September 13, 15 and 17 at the Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium in New Delhi.
