The host broadcaster of the T20 World Cup 2026 has taken down a controversial promotional advertisement in which an Indian fan mocked South Africa ahead of their Super 8 clash.
The promo, released by Star Sports, was intended to build excitement around the India–South Africa match. Set in a café, the video showed an Indian supporter teasing a Proteas fan over a cupcake while reminding him of South Africa’s defeat in the 2024 T20 World Cup final.
The advertisement drew criticism from viewers on social media, with many saying it undermined the spirit of the game and crossed the line from playful rivalry into disrespect.
The backlash intensified after South Africa defeated India by 76 runs on Sunday in Ahmedabad.
South Africa posted 187 for 7 in its 20 overs, powered by a blistering 63 off 35 balls from David Miller. India was bowled out for 111 in reply, with 42 from Shivam Dube the only significant contribution.
The advertisement was later removed from Star Sports’ official X account. It remains unclear whether the decision to delete the video was made before or after the Super 8 fixture.
There was no immediate official statement from the broadcaster regarding the removal. (Newswire)
“Star Sports dropped that smug ‘cupcake choker’ ad mocking SA before the Super 8 clash… then quietly deleted it after Proteas smashed India by 76 runs in Ahmedabad.
Lesson in humility served cold.#INDvSApic.twitter.com/mWuheq82uS
— GAURAV (@crazyGaurav_) February 22, 2026
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