In a surprising development, the Instagram accounts of prominent Pakistani cricketers Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan have been blocked in India, leaving fans and followers stunned. The restrictions, reported on May 2, 2025, are linked to a “legal request to restrict content” in the aftermath of a tragic terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed numerous lives. This move has sparked widespread discussion among cricket enthusiasts and social media users across both nations.
Babar Azam, former captain of the Pakistan cricket team, and Mohammad Rizwan, the current white-ball skipper, are among the most celebrated athletes in Pakistan, with millions of followers, including a significant fan base in India. Their Instagram profiles, which regularly feature updates about their cricketing journeys, personal lives, and endorsements, now display a message to Indian users stating, “Account not available in India.” The block also extends to other Pakistani cricketers, including Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Naseem Shah, as well as notable personalities like Olympic gold medalist Arshad Nadeem.
The restrictions come at a time when both Babar and Rizwan are competing in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), where they continue to showcase their skills despite recent criticism over their form. The timing of the social media clampdown has fueled speculation about its motives, with some viewing it as a response to heightened tensions following the Pahalgam incident. Others argue it reflects broader efforts to curb content deemed sensitive in India.
Fans have expressed mixed reactions. While some Indian supporters lament the loss of access to their favorite players’ updates, others on social media platforms have endorsed the decision, citing national security concerns. Meanwhile, Babar Azam reportedly shared a cryptic Instagram story before the block, hinting at resilience in the face of adversity, which has only added to the buzz.
This development underscores the complex interplay between sports, geopolitics, and digital spaces. As cricket continues to unite fans across borders, such restrictions highlight the challenges of maintaining open communication in times of strain. For now, Indian fans hoping to follow Babar and Rizwan’s journey will need to rely on alternative platforms or news outlets, while the cricketing world watches how this situation unfolds.
