Team India made headlines after their emphatic Asia Cup group-stage victory over Pakistan by declining the traditional post-match handshake. A viral video captured Indian cricketers walking straight into their dressing room, shutting the door behind them, leaving the Pakistani players waiting in confusion.
The move came in the backdrop of heightened political tensions following the April Pahalgam terror attack and India’s subsequent ‘Operation Sindoor’ across the border in May. Calls for a boycott of the Asia Cup had already stirred controversy, and this gesture from India added fresh fuel to the rivalry.
Suryakumar Yadav sealed India’s win with a towering six, guiding his side to a dominant chase. However, instead of meeting Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha and his teammates for the customary handshake, Yadav and Shivam Dube walked directly to the dugout. Reports confirmed that the dressing room door was closed immediately, ensuring no post-match interaction.
Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha was visibly surprised, even walking halfway towards the Indian area with his teammates lined up for the handshake, but the Indian camp remained unmoved. The Men in Blue, fresh from their victory, made it clear that cricket was not the only message being played out on the field.
Speaking after the game, India captain Suryakumar Yadav defended the team’s decision. “It was a collective call. We came here to play cricket and we gave our reply. Some things are bigger than sportsmanship. This win is dedicated to our armed forces who fought in Operation Sindoor and to the families of victims of the Pahalgam attack,” he said.
On the field, India showcased their dominance by restricting Pakistan to just 127-9 in 20 overs. Kuldeep Yadav led the spin attack with three wickets, supported by Axar Patel with two and Varun Chakaravarthy with one. Pakistan batters found no rhythm, struggling to break free from India’s grip.
Chasing the target, India lost two quick wickets but opener Abhishek Sharma’s explosive 31 off 13 balls set the tone. Suryakumar anchored the chase with an unbeaten 47, ensuring India reached the total with 25 balls remaining.
With two wins from two, India are firmly on track to qualify for the Super Fours, with their final group-stage clash scheduled against Oman on Friday. The no-handshake controversy may continue to dominate headlines, but India’s performance with bat and ball left no doubt about their supremacy.
