Tensions flared after India’s win over Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025, as the Indian team refused the customary post-match handshake. Captain Suryakumar Yadav later confirmed the decision was intentional and meant to show solidarity with victims of a recent attack in Indian-administered Kashmir. He said the team dedicated the win to the Indian armed forces involved in “Operation Sindoor”.
The political backdrop of the match added to the tension. Just months earlier, India and Pakistan were on the brink of war, following missile exchanges and deadly attacks across the border. While the cricket fixture had been approved after intense negotiations, hopes that it might ease tensions were dashed by the post-match incident.
Yadav and his partner walked straight off the field after securing victory, while Pakistan’s players waited for handshakes. The Indian squad instead shook hands only among themselves before entering the dressing room. The Pakistani side looked on in confusion as the Indian players closed the door behind them.
Pakistan lodged a formal protest with the match referee, Andy Pycroft, who later apologized. According to sources, the referee had privately allowed India to skip the handshake but failed to inform the Pakistani team. The gesture was seen by Pakistan as a breach of sportsmanship, prompting their captain to boycott post-match interviews.
Utterly disappointing to witness the lack of sportsmanship today. Dragging politics into the game goes against the very spirit of sports. Lets hope future victories are celebrated by all teams with grace
— Mohsin Naqvi (@MohsinnaqviC42) September 14, 2025
ACC Chairman and PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi condemned the incident, saying “politics has no place in sport.” With both teams likely to face off again in the Super Four stage, the controversy has further intensified an already politically charged rivalry — both on and off the pitch.