The Asia Cup 2025 continues to make headlines as players from India and Pakistan prepare for a tense reunion at the ICC Academy in Dubai on Tuesday, just days after the much-discussed handshake controversy. The two sides last met on Sunday at the Dubai International Stadium, where India secured a commanding seven-wicket win while chasing 128 runs in only 15.5 overs.
According to reports, both teams are scheduled to train at the ICC Academy on Tuesday in overlapping slots. India will practice from 6 pm to 9 pm local time, while Pakistan’s session will run from 8 pm to 11 pm. This marks the first time the teams will share a training venue since the post-match incident that sparked widespread debate across cricketing circles.
India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, have already booked their spot in the Super Four stage after back-to-back wins against the UAE and Pakistan. Their final Group A fixture will be against Oman on Friday. Meanwhile, Pakistan are still in contention, having beaten Oman in their opener but losing to India in their second game. Their qualification depends on the outcome of their last group match against the UAE on Wednesday.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), however, has not confirmed its participation in the UAE match. The board recently clashed with the International Cricket Council (ICC) after demanding the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft. The ICC officially rejected the request on Tuesday, intensifying tensions between the PCB and the governing body.
The Handshake Row Explained
The controversy erupted after Indian players declined to shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts following Sunday’s match. Captain Suryakumar Yadav defended the decision, stating that the gesture was a tribute to the families of victims of the Pahalgam terror attack earlier this year, where 26 civilians lost their lives. He added that the team’s decision was rooted in solidarity and national sentiment.
The PCB expressed outrage, with chairman Mohsin Naqvi—who also heads the Asian Cricket Council—criticizing India’s stance on social media. The board later submitted a formal complaint to the ICC, accusing Pycroft of encouraging the no-handshake decision at the toss.
As India focus on their upcoming clash against Oman and Pakistan gear up for their crucial fixture against the UAE, the off-field drama ensures that the Asia Cup 2025 remains one of the most closely followed tournaments in recent history.
