India Beat Pakistan by 7 Wickets as Handshake Row Sparks Controversy at Asia Cup 2025
DUBAI – Tensions flared during the Asia Cup clash on Sunday after Indian players reportedly refused to shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts, drawing criticism from Pakistan’s camp.
Former captain Aaqib Cheema said the gesture went “against the spirit of sportsmanship,” adding that Pakistan’s reaction was only natural under the circumstances. According to officials, the match referee had advised both captains to skip handshakes at the toss, but the decision still left Pakistan visibly unhappy.
In protest, skipper Salman Ali Agha boycotted the post-match ceremony, while head coach Mike Hesson defended the team’s stance, calling it a “natural reaction” to what he described as an unsporting move from India.
On the field, however, it was a comfortable day for India. Chasing a modest 128-run target, captain Suryakumar Yadav led from the front with an unbeaten 47 off 37 balls. Abhishek Sharma provided an explosive start, and Tilak Varma chipped in with 31 runs, guiding India to 131-3 in just 15.5 overs at the Dubai International Stadium.
Pakistan’s only bright spot came from young bowler Saim Ayub, who picked up all three Indian wickets, finishing with figures of 3 for 35 in four overs.
Earlier, Pakistan’s batting faltered yet again, collapsing to 127 for 9 in their 20 overs after opting to bat first. India’s bowlers kept the pressure on throughout, ensuring a one-sided finish in the second group match of the tournament.
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