(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
India–Pakistan Cricket Row: Sportsmanship Questioned After Asia Cup 2025 Clash
September 18, 2025
The recent Asia Cup 2025 clash between India and Pakistan at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium has sparked intense debate — not over the result of the match, but over what happened after it.
Observers and fans across the cricketing world pointed out that the Indian team’s refusal to shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts went against the spirit of cricket. Sportsmanship traditions, such as handshakes at the end of a match, are a long-standing part of the game, regardless of rivalry or result.
Many argued that if a team decides to take the field, then it should treat the contest as a sporting event, not as an extension of political disputes. Critics suggested that boycotting handshakes after a completed match blurred the line between sports and politics.
The controversy comes against the backdrop of tensions following the Pahalgam incident. While India has maintained its stance, global opinion has largely called for independent investigation and evidence-based conclusions. Pakistan, on its part, offered cooperation in any neutral inquiry.
In his post-match remarks, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav took a strong position that drew mixed reactions. Some praised his patriotism, while others felt such statements may not align with the spirit of cricket.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) formally lodged a complaint with the International Cricket Council (ICC), citing breach of the players’ code of conduct, which encourages teams to exchange handshakes after matches. However, given India’s significant influence in world cricket, it remains uncertain whether the ICC will take action.
Interestingly, while Indian media channels amplified the issue with heated debates, former Indian cricketers who stayed neutral were also criticized on television. Commentators noted that decisions on whether to play such matches are taken at the board and government level, not by former players.
On the other hand, Pakistani media took a more measured approach, urging that politics and sports be kept separate. This difference in media narratives on both sides has been highlighted by analysts.
Despite the tensions, cricket experts worldwide have expressed disappointment at the lack of post-match sportsmanship. They argue that cricket, like all sports, is built on mutual respect, and actions that undermine this tradition ultimately harm the game’s global image.
The incident has left fans reflecting on whether cricket can truly remain above politics — and whether players, boards, and media alike will work to protect the spirit of the sport in the future.
