During a press conference in Dubai, Pakistan`s captain, Salman Agha, addressed the recent handshake controversy involving India at the Asia Cup 2025. He highlighted that Indian cricketers had notably declined the traditional post-match handshake with their Pakistani counterparts in both their Group A and Super Four encounters. Agha expressed his surprise, stating, “I began playing U16 cricket in 2007, and never once did I witness teams refusing handshakes. Even when relations between India and Pakistan were at their lowest, we always maintained this gesture.”
The two arch-rivals, India and Pakistan, are scheduled for their third encounter in the tournament, facing off once more in the highly anticipated final.
India, captained by Suryakumar Yadav, secured victories in their prior two matches against Pakistan this season, winning by 7 wickets in the first game and 6 wickets in the second. Agha attributed Pakistan`s losses to making more errors than their Indian opponents.
“Matches between India and Pakistan inherently carry immense pressure. We lost the last two games precisely because we committed more mistakes,” the Pakistani captain commented.
Although India boasts an impressive six-match winning streak, Pakistan has secured four victories out of their six tournament games. Despite this, Agha believes both teams will experience significant pressure during the intense final showdown.
“The final exerts equal pressure on both sides. We are unconcerned with the narratives from the Indian media; our sole focus is on executing the fundamentals correctly,” he emphasized.
Agha, who has struggled with his batting performance throughout the tournament, candidly acknowledged his shortcomings.
“Indeed, my performance hasn`t been up to standard, and my strike-rate has been subpar. However, the objective isn`t always to maintain a 150 strike-rate, but rather to adapt my play to the demands of the match situation,” he admitted.
India`s Decisive Stand
Following their initial match against Pakistan, India`s captain, Suryakumar Yadav, clarified the team`s decision to forgo handshakes with the Pakistani players.
“Our decision was made solely with the intention to play. We offered a clear response, acting in accordance with the BCCI and the government. I believe certain matters in life supersede sportsmanship. As I also mentioned during the presentation, we stand in solidarity with all victims of the Pahalagam terror attack,” Surya explained.
He further added, “We extend our support to their families and express our profound solidarity. As previously stated, we dedicate this victory to our courageous armed forces involved in Operation Sindoor. They serve as a constant source of inspiration for us, and we will endeavor, whenever possible, to inspire them in return.”
