Asia Cup chief Mohsin Naqvi and the Pakistan Cricket Board expressed strong disapproval over India’s conduct following their Group A clash against Pakistan in Dubai. India, led by stand-in captain Suryakumar Yadav, refused to shake hands with Pakistan players both before and after the match. Naqvi said dragging politics into the game violates the spirit of sportsmanship and called for future victories to be celebrated with grace.
The match was tense due to the recent Pahalgam terror attack in India, which killed 26 tourists. Despite the controversy, India chased down Pakistan’s target of 128 runs in just 15.5 overs, winning by seven wickets.
Handshake Snub Sparks Controversy
Suryakumar Yadav did not shake hands with Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha after the toss. Post-match, the Indian team avoided customary handshakes and pleasantries, even as Pakistan cricketers waited outside their dressing room. Suryakumar explained that the team’s actions were influenced by solidarity with the victims of the Pahalgam attack and Indian armed forces involved in Operation Sindoor.
On the field, India delivered a clinical performance. Kuldeep Yadav dismantled Pakistan’s batting line-up with precise left-arm wrist spin, earning Player of the Match, while Suryakumar anchored the chase with 47 not out from 37 balls. Pakistan captain Agha skipped the post-match presentation, reflecting the tension and emotional impact of the handshake controversy.
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