The Pakistan national anthem blunder in the Asia Cup 2025 stunned fans and players before the much-anticipated India vs Pakistan clash. Just as the teams lined up for the national anthems, a shocking mistake occurred. Instead of the traditional Pak Sarzamin Shad Bad, the DJ accidentally played the opening beats of the global pop hit “Jalebi Baby” by Tesher and Jason Derulo. The crowd fell silent for a moment, while players exchanged confused glances.
Dubai is hosting the Asia Cup 2025, where organisers expect every detail of the India-Pakistan game to be flawless. However, right before the toss, a technical error created chaos. The DJ hit the wrong track, and the speakers echoed the famous tune of “Jalebi Baby.”
Within seconds, organisers realised the mistake. The track was cut off and replaced with the correct Pakistani national anthem. But by then, the embarrassment had already gone viral. Television cameras captured the startled expressions of the Pakistani players, including captain Salman Ali Agha. The seriousness of the moment clashed with the upbeat tune, leaving everyone stunned.
The reaction was swift. Pakistani players stood visibly uncomfortable during those first few seconds. Though the anthem eventually played in full, the initial disruption overshadowed the ceremony.
Fans reacted strongly on social media. Memes flooded X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. Some laughed at the irony, while others called it an insult to national pride. For Pakistani supporters, it felt like disrespect at one of the world’s biggest sporting rivalries.
Indian fans, on the other hand, were divided. Many agreed it was an unfortunate blunder, while some used humour to lighten the situation. The incident even caught the attention of Tesher, the singer of “Jalebi Baby,” who jokingly commented that he never expected his track to become an “anthem” moment.
After this incident, tournament officials will surely review their systems. Extra rehearsals, sound checks, and clear track labeling can help avoid future chaos. Small details matter, especially on stages watched by millions worldwide.
Organisers might also consider issuing an apology to the Pakistan Cricket Board. Such a step would reassure fans that the error was accidental and not deliberate. Transparency and accountability are key in maintaining trust.
The Pakistan national anthem blunder in the Asia Cup 2025 will not be forgotten easily. While the mix-up was brief, its impact was lasting. It showed how one technical mistake can overshadow the start of a major sporting event. Above all, the incident reminded everyone to never compromise respect for national symbols, no matter how tense or lighthearted the occasion may seem.
