From the clarion calls of India reaching 300 runs in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 to the do-or-die against Zimbabwe, the tournament’s official broadcaster — Star Sports — had to eat a humble pie. The broadcaster, which has been called out for its snarky commercials, is now being trolled for a change in tone midway through the tournament.
The fans’ reaction comes after Star Sports termed India’s Super 8 match against No. 11 Zimbabwe as a “do-or-diet” game. Fans were quick to call out the hyperbole of Star Sports, which has time and again disrespected India’s opponents in the T20 World Cup.
Redemption on line for #TeamIndia after a rough start in the Super 8 but #Zimbabwe won’t back down. ??
Comment your prediction below! ??
ICC for men #T20 World Cup ?? SUPER 8 | #INDvWINTER | Thu., Feb. 26, 6:00 p.m pic.twitter.com/1ySlEkp4n0— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) February 24, 2026
Many fans pointed out that Star Sports had launched an advertising campaign ahead of India’s group stage match against Namibia, asking fans if this would be the game where India would cross 300 runs for the first time in a T20I.
News flash – India does not. In fact, they struggled against the spin of Namibia captain Gerhard Erasmus.
In India’s first Super 8 match against South Africa, Star Sports ran a condescending ad against the finalists of the last edition, where they used a basket to mock Protea fans.
After India lost heavily against South Africa, the ad was pulled.
Now, ahead of India’s match against Zimbabwe in Chennai, Star Sports has released an ad and finally put Zimbabwe on par without mocking or disrespecting the team.
As India head into their crucial match against Zimbabwe on February 26, perhaps the last week serves as a reminder to broadcasters: avoid getting ahead of the game and, for that matter, don’t cross the line. Because in cricket it ain’t done till it’s done.
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Issued by:
Kingshuk Kusari
Published on:
February 24, 2026
