The Pavilion: A Pakistani Cricket Show that Captivated Indian Audience in 2023

An Indian cricket show called The Pavilion, aired during the 2023 World Cup, has managed to overcome the long-standing hostile relations between India and Pakistan. Despite the tensions between the neighboring countries, thousands of Indians flocked to YouTube to watch the show after every match in the tournament. The Pavilion, launched in 2021, features former Pakistani cricketers such as Wasim Akram, Moin Khan, Shoaib Malik, and Misbah-ul-Haq, who provide expert analysis and engage in light-hearted banter. The show's format, which focuses on conversation and avoids negativity and toxicity, has garnered popularity in India, with Indian cricketers and journalists praising its quality and lack of bias. The success of The Pavilion has been likened to that of Coke Studio, a Pakistani music program with a significant Indian fanbase. Despite the intense cricket rivalry between India and Pakistan, the show has managed to unite fans from both countries and create a sense of camaraderie. The show's popularity in India can be attributed to factors such as the use of languages understood by Indians (English, Urdu, and Punjabi), the presence of popular former players, and the absence of comparable cricket shows on Indian TV during the World Cup. The appreciation for The Pavilion reflects the shared affection for each other's culture and the unifying power of cricket in India and Pakistan.