Cricket Craze: India vs Pakistan Ticket Surge
Cricket Craze: India vs Pakistan Tickets 600% Higher on Secondary Market
Cricket is not just a sport, but a passion that unites communities, and this is especially true for matches between India and Pakistan. Tickets for the India-Pakistan clash during the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 are already breaking records, but unfortunately, not due to the quality of the game, but because of ticket prices. Originally sold at around 500 dirhams (approximately 136 USD), the tickets on the secondary market can go up to 3,500 dirhams (approximately 950 USD), meaning prices are up to 600% higher than the official price.
The Ticket Purchase Struggle
The official ticket sales sparked huge interest. Numerous fans spent hours on online waiting lists trying to secure a ticket, but they sold out within just an hour. A cricket fan living in Sharjah also tried but was unsuccessful. "I kept refreshing the page for hours, hoping to get a ticket. But by the time it was my turn, everything was sold out. Now I see them priced at 3,500 dirhams on the secondary market. It's incredibly frustrating," he shared. He mentioned that when he offered to pay 200 dirhams more than the original price, the ticket seller angrily asked if he knew how much this match is worth.
Another fan was similarly disappointed. "I set aside 500 dirhams for the ticket, but I can't afford more than 1,000 dirhams for a match. I feel like these games are only for those who can pay exorbitant prices," he said. He added that ticket prices in Dubai are much higher than in India, leaving him with only the option to watch the match on screen.
The Role of the Secondary Market
India-Pakistan matches have always been among the most popular events in cricket, and this time was no different. Due to the huge demand, secondary market prices skyrocketed. Some ticket sellers reported being approached by dozens of interested buyers. "Since yesterday, I've received over 50 calls for tickets. Many people are negotiating, but even at three times the price, they are still interested," said a secondary market seller.
Another ticket seller, who received tickets for all four matches held in Dubai, is offering them in lots for 6,000 dirhams. "Many people are looking for tickets not just for the India-Pakistan match but for all the matches. The India-Bangladesh, India-New Zealand, and semi-finals also generated great interest. The lot prices are still lower than individual ticket prices on the secondary market, but people are still bargaining," he explained.
The Match Venue and Fan Options
In anticipation of the big event, the match venue, the Dubai International Stadium, is welcoming fans on February 23. However, due to the high ticket prices, many are giving up on seeing the match live. For fans who failed to get official tickets, the secondary market prices make attendance virtually impossible.
Those who couldn't secure tickets will now have to resort to watching the match on screen. Streaming services and television broadcasts are set to reach record viewership on this day.
Why Are Prices So High?
India-Pakistan matches have always been special, not just because of the sport but also due to historical and cultural backgrounds. The rivalry between the two countries is palpable on the cricket field, always adding extra tension and excitement to the matches. Fans are seeking not just the game but the entire experience — the atmosphere, community, and memories that last a lifetime.
The secondary market prices reflect this. The demand is enormous, and the supply is limited, causing prices to skyrocket. The resale of tickets raises several ethical questions. Is it fair that the most dedicated fans cannot get tickets because others want to profit from the rare entries?
Conclusion
The India-Pakistan match has always been one of the biggest events in the cricket world, and it won't be any different this time. However, due to high ticket prices, this experience will not be available for many fans. The secondary market prices are incredibly high, excluding numerous fans from the event.
Yet, cricket is more than a sport — it's a community that connects people. While ticket prices soared, the fans' enthusiasm remains. Whether in the stadium or in front of screens, the India-Pakistan match will be an unforgettable experience for everyone.
And you? How are you preparing for the big match?
