Following the controversy surrounding its South Africa–India advertisement, Star Sports — the official broadcast partner of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 — has unveiled a fresh promo ahead of India’s February 26 match against Zimbabwe.
The latest promotional video showcases a montage of players from both sides, highlighting their determination to compete and secure victory. Unlike the earlier campaign that drew criticism, this presentation avoids any derogatory tone.
The previous South Africa vs India promo had triggered significant backlash online. Critics objected to the caricature-style depiction of the South African side, while the hosts were shown in a far more flattering manner. Many South African supporters, along with neutral fans, viewed the advertisement as biased.
The backlash over earlier promos
Broadcasters play a key role in generating excitement around major sports events. However, when promotional content is perceived as demeaning or controversial, it can provoke widespread criticism.
That scenario unfolded with the IND vs SA and IND vs PAK campaigns. In the lead-up to the February 15 group-stage clash against Pakistan, Star Sports released a promo that also faced sharp reactions from fans.
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The situation escalated further with a promo featuring a South African supporter, where a well-known YouTuber appeared to mock and insult South Africa for choking and losing the T20 World Cup 2024.
The advertisement was met with strong objections on social media. Fans voiced their disapproval, prompting Star Sports to remove the content from its official platforms. It was also withdrawn from television broadcasts. Subsequently, India suffered a heavy 76-run defeat to South Africa in Ahmedabad on February 22.
For many observers, that result compounded the embarrassment for the broadcaster, which had been accused of favouring the Men in Blue in its earlier campaign. Days later, ahead of the IND vs ZIM encounter, Star Sports released a new promo, this time adopting a neutral tone.
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Fans react to revised approach
The latest video adopts a straightforward, high-stakes montage format, focusing on both teams without exaggerated portrayals or caricatures. It has been shared across Star Sports’ social media channels and is currently airing on television.
Online, fans responded with memes and commentary, describing the shift in tone as a clear U-turn in the network’s promotional strategy.
India face must-win scenario in Super Eights
The upcoming contest carries significant weight for both teams. Competing in Super Eights Group 1 of the T20 World Cup 2026, India and Zimbabwe have each lost one of their three matches.
With West Indies and South Africa having secured one win apiece, victory in this fixture is essential to stay in the semi-final race.
Even if Suryakumar Yadav & Co. overcome Zimbabwe and then defeat West Indies on March 1, progression to the semi-finals may remain uncertain due to a substantial net run rate deficit.
India currently hold a net run rate of -3.800, while West Indies and South Africa both possess figures above +3. As a result, the Men in Blue require not just wins, but commanding margins to close the gap.
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Simply collecting two victories may not be enough; significant triumphs are necessary to keep their semi-final hopes alive.
