The Asia Cup 2025 encounter between Pakistan and India ended in controversy after the Indian team refused to shake hands with Pakistani players, sparking strong criticism from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
Taking to his official X account, Mohsin Naqvi expressed dismay over the incident, calling the behavior “extremely disappointing.” He said dragging politics into sports goes against the true spirit of the game.
“Utterly disappointing to witness the lack of sportsmanship today. Let’s hope future victories are celebrated by all teams with grace, dignity and decency,” Naqvi posted.
Pakistan captain boycotts ceremony
The fallout extended to Pakistan’s T20I captain Salman Ali Agha, who boycotted the post-match ceremony after the snub.
Reports revealed that he also refused to speak with an Indian commentator during the event. Sources confirmed that Salman would have attended if a Pakistani host had conducted the proceedings.
Coach Hesson calls conduct ‘unsportsmanlike’
Pakistan’s head coach Mike Hesson also criticized India’s behavior, calling it unsportsmanlike.
Related: Agha boycotts post-match ceremony after India refuse handshake
He confirmed that Salman Ali Agha’s protest was in direct response to the snub and that the team management had filed a complaint with the match referee over the Indian squad’s conduct.
Why did India refuse to shake hands?
India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav, who struck the winning runs, walked off the field with partner Shivam Dube without approaching Pakistani players for the customary handshake.
Pakistan’s team waited on the field for the Indian squad and support staff, expecting the traditional gesture. Instead, the Indian players only shook hands among themselves before retreating into their dressing room, leaving Pakistani players standing in disbelief.
Suryakumar Yadav later admitted that his side intentionally avoided handshakes as a mark of protest, reflecting the broader political standoff between the two neighbors.
