Big cricket nights are not just about the runs and wickets. They are about the overall experience. As India prepares to face Pakistan in the Asia Cup Super-Four clash on Sunday, 21 September 2025, at 8 pm IST (Dubai International Cricket Stadium), excitement is already at fever pitch. Families are planning watch parties, friends are booking screenings, and social media is buzzing with predictions.
And what is the secret to making the evening even more memorable? Snacks that keep the energy high and the mood festive. Here is your guide to what to serve, whether you are cooking at home or ordering in.
Veg Vs Non-Veg Starters For Cricket Match Nights
Begin with hearty starters that set the tone for the evening.
- Paneer Tikka - Smoky, tender, and spiced to perfection, paneer tikka is a vegetarian favourite. You can grill it at home or order a platter so it is ready before the first ball.
- Chicken Lollipop - Juicy, tangy, and easy to grab between overs, chicken lollipops are perfect for non-vegetarian fans. Pair them with a spicy dip for extra punch.
Crunchy Munchies To Keep The Excitement Alive
Once the match heats up, you need snacks that are easy to share and keep the energy flowing.
- Masala Fries - Crispy, golden fries tossed with chaat masala or peri-peri spice. Serve them with an assortment of dips such as mint chutney, ketchup, or cheese sauce.
- Popcorn And Masala Peanuts - Light, crunchy, and addictive, these classics let you stay focused on the action without fuss. For more variety, add roasted chana or makhana.
Loaded Sharing Platters For Cricket Watch Parties
For moments when the game becomes intense, sharing platters work best as they allow everyone to dig in without missing the action.
- Nachos With Cheese And Salsa - Perfect for groups, nachos layered with melted cheese, salsa, jalapenos, and sour cream are a crowd favourite.
- Mini Sliders - Small burgers filled with chicken, paneer, or vegetable patties. They are easy to customise and guaranteed to disappear fast.
Quick And Easy Snacks Or Order-In Options
Match nights can be unpredictable, and you may not want to spend too much time in the kitchen. Here are some quick choices.
- DIY In 15 Minutes: Toss together a bhel puri, prepare spiced corn, or serve instant noodles with toppings.
- Order-In Favourites: Paneer tikka, kebabs, or nachos platters are just a click away on your favourite food delivery app.
Healthier Alternatives For Conscious Eaters
Not every cricket snack has to be fried. Balance indulgence with lighter bites that are equally satisfying.
- Baked samosas or spring rolls - All the flavour of the original but without the deep-frying. Baking gives them a crunchy texture while keeping them far lighter in oil.
- Roasted makhana with masala - A quick, protein-rich snack that is crunchy, filling, and can be customised with a spice mix of your choice.
- Air-fried vegetable cutlets - A guilt-free twist on the classic cutlet. Air frying ensures crispness without excess oil, making it ideal for long match nights.
- Grilled corn with lemon and spice - Simple to prepare, this smoky and tangy option is refreshing and light, perfect for munching during tense overs.
Drinks To Pair With Your Snacks
No cricket watch party is complete without drinks that match the mood. Beverages not only quench thirst but also complement the flavours of the snacks being served.
- Masala chai for late-night warmth - Ideal for those who prefer something comforting, especially during late hours when the match stretches.
- Iced tea or lemonade for a cooling option - Fresh, tangy, and energising, these drinks are perfect if the game gets too heated.
- Chaas or lassi to balance spicy flavours - These yoghurt-based drinks calm the palate and go well with spicy starters like paneer tikka or chicken lollipop.
- Mocktails and sodas for a festive feel - Bright, fizzy drinks instantly lift the mood and add a celebratory element to the evening.
Match-Night Hosting Tips For The Perfect Atmosphere
While food and drinks take centre stage, the environment you create is just as important. A little preparation can turn a regular match screening into a memorable event.
- Arrange enough seating so everyone has a good view - Make sure your seating is comfortable and placed so no one misses a single ball. Floor cushions and beanbags can work well if space is limited.
- Keep snacks in easy-to-reach bowls or platters - Passing plates around during a tense over can be distracting. Set up multiple small bowls and platters so guests can help themselves.
- Use disposable cups and plates for hassle-free cleanup - Match nights can get messy, and nobody wants to wash dishes after an intense game. Eco-friendly disposables make cleaning simple and quick.
- Create a cricket-themed playlist for pre-match build-up - Music sets the tone before the game begins. Classic Bollywood cricket songs or upbeat tracks can keep energy levels high as you wait for the first ball.
These small touches ensure that your cricket party is not just about watching the match but also about enjoying the company, food, and atmosphere.
The India vs Pakistan clash promises high-voltage cricket. Pairing it with a carefully planned snack spread, refreshing drinks, and good company will make the evening unforgettable. Every six, every wicket, and every nail-biting finish feels even better with delicious bites by your side.
Disclosure: This article may contain links to third-party websites or resources. However, this does not affect the integrity of the content, and all recommendations and views are based on our independent research and judgment.