By Nikhil

Copyright timesnownews

In their Asia Cup 2025 Group A match at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, India crushed Pakistan by seven wickets, but the on-field action was swiftly overshadowed by the drama off the field. After a brilliant bowling display that held Pakistan to 127/9, Team India lost three wickets while chasing the score in just 15.5 overs. However, it was their post-match action that attracted international notice. None of the Indian players were on the field after the last ball as Pakistan waited for the traditional handshake. Additionally, footage showed Pakistani players stuck as India’s support workers closed the door to the team dressing area. On a post-match show, former Pakistani bowler Shoaib Akhtar voiced his disappointment, describing the episode as discouraging. Shoaib Akhtar On India’s No-Handshake Stand“I’m speechless. It is disheartening to see and I don’t know what to say. Hats off to India. Just don’t make things political. Cricket match hain, isko political mat banao… Fights happen, even inside your house. Forget it, move on. It is the game of cricket, shake your hands, show your grace,” Akhtar said. Salman Ali Agha, the captain of Pakistan, was also supported by the former speedster for not attending the post-match presentation ceremony. “Thik kiya Salman Ali Agha ne, wo nahi gaya post match mein, good,” he added. The match on Sunday was the first time India and Pakistan had played cricket together since the Pahalgam terror assault earlier this year, which heightened geopolitical tensions. There were calls for the team to skip the game on social media and in India before it, but forfeiture was not an option according to tournament rules. On the other hand, India remained in line with national feeling. Even though the game was a one-sided contest, the handshake dispute and Akhtar’s passionate remarks took centre stage in post-match discussions, reminding cricket fans everywhere that this rivalry has meaning that goes far beyond runs and wickets.