The India-Pakistan match at next year's Cricket World Cup, which will be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, has attracted more ticket requests than the tournament final, highlighting the huge following of a rivalry that remains one of the biggest attractions in international cricket.

The October 10 group-stage encounter at Johannesburg's Wanderers Stadium has received 8,397,294 applications, according to the International Cricket Council (ICC), while the final, which will be held at the same venue on November 21, has attracted 7,900,944 requests.

The rivalry dates back to the 1947 partition of British India, which led to the creation of India and Pakistan and decades of political tension between the neighbours. Cricket matches between the two sides have since taken on significance beyond the sport, drawing intense interest from supporters in both countries.

The demand for next year's encounter is part of a wider surge in interest in the tournament, according to the ICC. The organisation has received more than 120 million ticket requests from 2.8 million fans across 193 countries, with the competition returning to Africa for the first time in 24 years.

"More than 32 million match registrations have been completed, demonstrating that the demand for tickets is not limited to high-value fixtures," the ICC said.

According to ICC General Manager for Events and Operations Gaurav Saxena,  the response showed the global appeal of the competition.

“This level of demand reflects the global appeal of the tournament and the significance of bringing the Men’s Cricket World Cup back to Africa for the first time in 24 years,” Saxena said.

The three host countries have also attracted considerable interest, with African fans submitting more than 14.9 million ticket applications. According to Local Organising Committee CEO Qondisa Ngwenya, the interest presented an opportunity for the three countries to showcase their cultures and hospitality to an international audience.

The 2027 tournament will feature 14 teams competing in 57 matches across 12 host cities in the three countries. Fans have until November 21, 2026, to register for the free ticket ballot and select their preferred matches. According to the ICC, where applications exceed available tickets, successful applicants will be chosen through a randomised process.