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Asia Cup 2025: India vs Pakistan Handshake Controversy Explained

Asia Cup 2025: India vs Pakistan Handshake Controversy

Asia Cup 2025: India vs Pakistan Handshake Controversy Explained

India vs Pakistan cricket matches are never ordinary — they carry politics, emotions, pride, and history. The Asia Cup 2025 clash proved that once again. India won the game by 7 wickets, but the real talking point wasn’t the result — it was the absence of a handshake between the two teams.

What Happened?

At the toss, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav and Pakistan’s captain did not shake hands. After the match, when Pakistan’s players came forward for the traditional handshake, the Indian players walked straight to the dressing room. Later, Yadav explained that the decision was a tribute to the victims of a recent militant attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, and a mark of solidarity with the Indian Army. He said that “some things are bigger than cricket.”

Pakistan, however, claimed that match referee Andy Pycroft had informed teams that handshakes would not happen, which raised even more questions about the handling of the situation.

Reactions

  • Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB): Accused India of disrespecting the spirit of cricket and mixing politics with sport. They even warned of boycotting further matches if no action was taken.
  • Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI): Responded that handshakes are not mandatory under ICC rules. They are a custom, not a law.
  • Pakistan’s coach: Mike Hesson expressed disappointment, saying his players were ready to shake hands but India refused.
  • Asian Cricket Council (ACC) / ICC: Reviewing the incident. At most, India could face a warning or fine, but nothing suggests a replay or overturned result.

Did India Break Any Rules?

Technically, no. ICC’s playing conditions do not make handshakes compulsory. The “Spirit of Cricket” encourages players to respect opponents, but it does not legally enforce handshakes. So while some argue India went against tradition, there was no violation of the law of the game.

What Happens Next?

  • Warning or Fine: ACC may issue a formal warning or impose a small fine to prevent future issues.
  • Referee Review: PCB has demanded Andy Pycroft’s removal, though ICC rarely acts on such requests quickly.
  • New Protocols: This controversy may lead to ICC making handshakes a formal requirement in all matches.
  • No Replay: The match result stands. India won, Pakistan lost, and the game will not be replayed.

The Bigger Picture

The controversy has sparked wider debate. Can sports ever be fully separated from politics in an India vs Pakistan rivalry? Was India’s gesture an emotional tribute or poor sportsmanship? Should cricket boards set clearer guidelines for such symbolic acts?

Conclusion

The Asia Cup 2025 clash will be remembered not for sixes or wickets but for an absent handshake. For India, it was about honoring soldiers and victims. For Pakistan, it felt like a lack of respect. In the end, the result remains unchanged, but the debate about where sports end and politics begin has grown stronger. One thing is clear — the next time these two sides meet, fans will be watching not just the game, but also whether the players shake hands.

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