A fresh controversy burst ahead of PSL 2025 after Multan Sultans shared a video featuring their mascot using a voice-over of India captain Rohit Sharma from a recent press conference. The video was intended to show the PSL 2025 trophy, which sparked reactions from fans in both India and Pakistan due to the strained cricketing ties between the two countries.
Rohit Sharma’s Champions Trophy audio used in PSL
In the video, the mascot of Sultans’ was seen imitating Rohit Sharma’s famous comment during the PC after winning the Champions Trophy, where he said, “Humse pucho isko jeetne ke liye kya lagta hai”. PSL created their version with a PSL trophy in it.
Special presser called by Saeen at the Sultans Fort.
— Multan Sultans (@MultanSultans) March 19, 2025#HBLPSLX | #DECADEOFHBLPSL pic.twitter.com/csIrGdzHy1
Fans hated Multan Sultan’s video
The concept of using mascots to make announcements is common in sports but using an Indian cricketer’s voice in a PSL promotion surprised many. Some fans in India perceived it as a mockery of their national team’s captain, leading to intense reactions online. Many questioned why a PSL franchise would use the words of an Indian player to promote their tournament.
Numerous users expressed their displeasure on social media platforms. The controversy comes on the heels of another heated incident where Australian cricketer Brad Hogg was criticised for making fun of Mohammad Rizwan’s English.
PSL 2025 schedule
PSL 2025 is set to kick off on April 11, with Islamabad United facing Lahore Qalandars in Rawalpindi. The tournament will continue until May 18, with the finals and eliminators held at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. For the first time, PSL will run concurrently with IPL, as the Champions Trophy prompted the PCB to shift PSL’s usual February-March schedule to April-May. An exhibition match in Peshawar on April 8 will precede the main tournament.
