Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha voiced his profound disappointment and frustration during a post-match press conference, following his team`s latest defeat to India in the Asia Cup 2025 final. Despite a valiant effort to secure a victory after two previous losses in the tournament, India ultimately triumphed, largely due to Tilak Varma`s stellar performance. Agha`s remarks came in response to questions regarding ongoing non-cricketing controversies throughout the Asia Cup, which began when Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav notably declined to shake hands on September 14.
The final match of the Asia Cup sparked significant controversy when the Indian team declined to receive the trophy from Mohsin Naqvi, who serves as both the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chief and the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), as well as a prominent political figure. Allegedly displeased by India`s actions, Naqvi reportedly removed the trophy and medals to his hotel room.
When pressed by a reporter about India`s overall conduct during the tournament, Agha, while refraining from using “harsh words,” characterized Suryakumar Yadav`s team`s behavior as “disrespectful.”
“Sir, what has happened in this tournament is very disappointing. They seem to believe that by not shaking hands, they are disrespecting us. No, sir, they are disrespecting cricket itself. A truly good team would never act in such a manner,” Agha stated. He continued, highlighting his team`s contrasting behavior: “A good team behaves as we did. We waited patiently to receive our medals and even took separate photos with the trophy before the game. Without using overly harsh words, their actions are deeply disrespectful; they are disrespecting the game of cricket.”
Agha further asserted that Suryakumar Yadav had, in fact, shaken hands with him privately at the outset of the tournament.
“He shook hands with me in private at the start of the tournament, both at the pre-tournament press conference and during the referee`s meeting. Yet, in front of the cameras and the public, they refuse to shake our hands,” Agha explained. He speculated, “I`m sure he`s following specific instructions, but I believe if it were solely up to him, he would shake my hand.”
Despite the contentious absence of the trophy, the Indian team, led by Suryakumar Yadav, proceeded with their celebrations. Yadav was observed performing traditional victory gestures on the podium, simulating the act of lifting the Asia Cup trophy.
