(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Handshake Snub Adds to Tension After India’s Win Over Pakistan in Asia Cup 2025
September 22, 2025
DUBAI: The Asia Cup 2025 Super Four clash between India and Pakistan ended in unusual fashion on Sunday as players from both teams walked off without the traditional post-match handshake.
India successfully chased down a 172-run target at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, securing a six-wicket victory with contributions from Sanju Samson and Hardik Pandya, who sealed the match in the 19th over.
However, the absence of handshakes at the end of the game drew attention from commentators and fans alike. Observers described it as a break from cricketing norms, highlighting the ongoing strain between the two rivals.
Toss moment also in spotlight
The tension was visible earlier in the match as well. At the toss, India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav chose to bowl first but did not engage in a customary handshake with Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha. Instead, both captains proceeded directly to their pre-match discussions, bypassing the usual gesture of sportsmanship.
Rivalry remains intense
Neither team provided clarification on the decision to skip handshakes, but the incident has become a major talking point, underscoring the intensity of one of cricket’s longest-standing rivalries.
India’s win marked their second consecutive victory over Pakistan in the tournament and further strengthened their position in the Super Four stage. Pakistan, meanwhile, will look to regroup ahead of their next fixture against Sri Lanka in Abu Dhabi.
