The highly anticipated India–Pakistan clash at the Asia Cup 2025 ended in a dominant win for Team India — but the post-match events have sparked controversy off the field.
Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar has strongly criticised the Indian team’s decision to avoid the customary handshake, urging players to keep politics away from the sport.
Clinical Indian Victory Over Pakistan
On Sunday, Suryakumar Yadav-led Team India delivered a clinical performance at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, first restricting Pakistan to 127/9 in 20 overs and then chasing down the target with ease in just 15.5 overs, losing only three wickets.
The emphatic win put India in a commanding position in Group A of the Asia Cup 2025.
No Post-Match Handshake Sparks Debate
While fans celebrated India’s win, what followed after the match raised eyebrows. Pakistan players waited for the customary handshake, but the Indian players did not return to the field. Videos circulating online also showed Indian players closing their dressing room doors, signaling their decision not to engage in the ritual post-match gesture.
Shoaib Akhtar Calls Out India’s Gesture
Reacting to the incident on a Pakistani sports show, Shoaib Akhtar expressed disappointment over what he perceived as unsportsmanlike conduct.
“I’m speechless. It is disheartening to see. Hats off to India. Just don’t make things political. It’s a cricket match — don’t politicise it. We have said nice things about you. Fights happen, even inside your house. Forget it, move on. Shake hands, show some grace.”
— Shoaib Akhtar, Former Pakistan Fast Bowler
Support for Pakistan Captain Salman Ali Agha
Akhtar also defended Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha, who was notably absent from the post-match presentation ceremony.
“Salman did the right thing by not attending the post-match ceremony. Good on him,”
— Shoaib Akhtar
Context: India–Pakistan Relations Post Pahalgam Attack
This match marked the first encounter between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack earlier this year, which had intensified geopolitical tensions.
Ahead of the game, there were widespread calls from sections of the Indian public and online communities to boycott the fixture. However, tournament regulations made forfeiture nearly impossible, compelling India to play.
By refusing the handshake, the Indian team appeared to express solidarity with the nation’s sentiment while still fulfilling its tournament obligations.
