Lanka’s cricket diplomacy: Indo-Pak bhai-bhai View(s):Cricket is not just a game; it is more than a passion in the South Asian subcontinent. The high-octane India-Pakistan clash in a packed stadium, electrified by fan emotions and patriotic fervor, makes every encounter between the two arch rivals unforgettable. The picture shows an Indian fan and a Pakistani fan making a friendship gesture near the Premadasa Stadium yesterday, ahead of today’s match — made possible also by Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s successful cricket diplomacy, which led Pakistan to reverse its decision to boycott the match. Pic by Eshan Fernando

Source: Sunday Times February 14, 2026 19:49 UTC