The simmering tension between India and Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 has taken a fresh turn as the handshake controversy deepened ahead of their Super Four clash in Dubai. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi held an unscheduled meeting with the national team players and coaching staff on September 21, just hours before the high-voltage encounter, urging them to maintain composure and “focus on cricket, not gestures.”
The controversy began during the group stage match when Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav refused to shake hands with Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha at the toss, citing the recent Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 Indian civilians. The gesture—or lack thereof—was repeated in the Super Four clash, prompting the PCB to lodge a formal protest with the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and the International Cricket Council (ICC), alleging “unsportsmanlike conduct.”
Naqvi’s intervention is seen as an attempt to manage the psychological fallout within the Pakistani camp. Sources close to the team revealed that the players were “visibly disturbed” by the repeated snub and the media frenzy surrounding it. Naqvi reportedly told the squad, “Let your performance speak. Don’t get drawn into political theatrics. The world is watching.”
Timeline of the Handshake Controversy – Asia Cup 2025
| Date | Event Description | Impact on Teams |
|---|---|---|
| Sep 18 | Suryakumar refuses handshake during toss | PCB files informal complaint |
| Sep 21 | Repeat snub in Super Four clash | PCB escalates to formal protest |
| Sep 21 | Mohsin Naqvi meets Pakistan team in Dubai | Internal morale boost attempt |
| Sep 22 | ACC yet to issue official statement | Awaiting ICC response |
The Indian camp has remained tight-lipped, with BCCI officials backing Suryakumar’s decision as “personal and symbolic.” A senior BCCI source stated, “The captain has the right to express solidarity with national sentiment. There’s no rule mandating handshakes.”
Meanwhile, the PCB’s protest letter reportedly accuses India of “deliberate provocation” and “disrespect to the spirit of cricket.” It also advises Pakistan players to avoid approaching Indian counterparts for post-match gestures, including handshakes or jersey exchanges. The letter, addressed to ACC President Jay Shah and ICC CEO Geoff Allardice, calls for “immediate intervention to prevent further escalation.”
The controversy has overshadowed what was otherwise a thrilling cricketing contest. India chased down Pakistan’s total of 171/5 with six wickets in hand and 10 balls to spare, thanks to a blistering 74 from Abhishek Sharma and a fluent 47 from Shubman Gill. The opening pair’s 105-run stand dismantled Pakistan’s bowling attack and reaffirmed India’s dominance in the tournament.
India vs Pakistan – Asia Cup 2025 Super Four Match Summary
| Category | India | Pakistan |
|---|---|---|
| Total Score | 176/4 in 18.4 overs | 171/5 in 20 overs |
| Top Scorer | Abhishek Sharma – 74 (39) | Sahibzada Farhan – 58 (45) |
| Best Bowler | Shivam Dube – 2/33 | Haris Rauf – 2/26 |
| Controversial Moment | Handshake snub at toss | PCB protest escalation |
| Crowd Reaction | Mixed, politically charged | Boos and chants from both sides |
The handshake row has also sparked reactions from former cricketers and commentators. Gautam Gambhir backed Suryakumar’s stance, saying, “Respect is earned, not given. If the captain feels strongly, he has every right to act accordingly.” On the other hand, Shoaib Akhtar urged restraint, stating, “Cricket should unite, not divide. Let the bat and ball do the talking.”
Social media has been ablaze with hashtags like #HandshakeGate, #AsiaCup2025, and #SuryakumarSnub, with fans divided over whether the gesture was justified or excessive. Memes, opinion polls, and video clips have flooded platforms, turning the controversy into a digital spectacle.
Public Sentiment Analysis – Handshake Row
| Platform | Sentiment Summary | Trending Hashtags |
|---|---|---|
| 60% support Suryakumar, 30% criticize, 10% neutral | #SuryakumarSnub, #HandshakeGate | |
| Emotional tributes, patriotic reels | #IndiaPakistanRivalry | |
| Mixed reactions, long-form debates | #CricketSpirit | |
| YouTube | Match highlights dominated by handshake clips | #AsiaCup2025 |
The ACC has so far refrained from issuing a formal statement, but insiders suggest that a code-of-conduct review may be initiated post-tournament. The ICC, known for its cautious approach to bilateral tensions, is expected to consult both boards before making any public comment.
Pakistan’s next match against Sri Lanka is now a must-win, while India is virtually assured of a place in the final. The political undertones of the tournament have added layers of complexity to what was meant to be a celebration of cricketing excellence.
Mohsin Naqvi’s presence in Dubai is being interpreted as a signal of the PCB’s intent to manage both optics and morale. His meeting reportedly included a closed-door session with head coach Gary Kirsten and captain Salman Ali Agha, where strategies were discussed not just for the next match, but for handling media pressure and diplomatic sensitivities.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s Dubai Visit – Key Objectives
| Objective | Action Taken | Outcome Expected |
|---|---|---|
| Boost Team Morale | Addressed players, urged focus on performance | Psychological reset |
| Manage Media Narrative | Directed PR team to issue balanced statements | Damage control |
| Engage with ACC Officials | Informal meetings scheduled | Awaiting formal response |
| Review Internal Protocols | Advised players to avoid gestures with Indian team | Prevent further escalation |
As the Asia Cup 2025 heads into its final stretch, the cricketing world watches not just for runs and wickets, but for gestures, statements, and symbolism. The handshake row may fade, but its impact on Indo-Pak cricket diplomacy will linger long after the final ball is bowled.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available match footage, official statements, and media reports. It does not reflect any political stance or endorsement. All quotes are attributed to public figures as per coverage. The content is intended for editorial and informational purposes only.
