ISLAMABAD: The refusal of the Indian cricket team to shake hands with Pakistan players after their Asia Cup 2025 clash has sparked strong criticism and revived debate over sportsmanship in international cricket.
Asian Cricket Council President and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi condemned the incident, calling it a blatant snub and an attempt to drag politics into the sport. He wrote on X that the lack of courtesy undermined the spirit of cricket and urged that future victories be celebrated with grace.
The controversy began at the toss when Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav reportedly declined to shake hands with Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha. It escalated at the end of the match, when Yadav and Shivam Dube fist-bumped before walking off, with the rest of the Indian team ignoring Pakistan players waiting for the customary handshake.
Pakistan, batting first, managed 127 for 9, with Sahibzada Farhan scoring 40 and Shaheen Afridi adding 33 off 16 balls. India chased down the target in less than 16 overs, led by Yadav’s unbeaten 47, Tilak Varma’s 31 and Abhishek’s 31 off 13.
However, the result was overshadowed by the handshake snub. Critics said Yadav further politicised the contest by referencing the Pahalgam attack during his victory remarks.
Former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar urged players to fight hard on the field but respect tradition off it, while Mohammad Hafeez expressed regret with a single word: “Sportsmanship.” TV host Fakhar-e-Alam stressed that political disputes must not enter the playing field.
Former minister Fawad Chaudhry described India’s actions as a psychological meltdown and suggested mockingly that the UN initiate a “rehab plan” for India with Pakistan leading it.
Fans on social media widely condemned India’s conduct, calling it petty and contrary to cricket etiquette. Many argued Pakistan had claimed a moral victory by maintaining dignity despite defeat.
