India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2025: No Handshake Controversy Explained

India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2025: No Handshake Controversy Explained

The India vs Pakistan rivalry in cricket has always been more than just a game—it’s an emotion, a spectacle, and at times, a stage for drama. The Asia Cup 2025 added yet another chapter to this storied rivalry, not just for the cricket but for what happened after the match: no handshake between the two teams.

This unusual gesture (or lack of it) has become one of the most talked-about moments in world cricket. Let’s break down what happened, why it happened, the official reactions, and the internet’s funniest takes.

The Match Recap

On September 14, 2025, at Dubai International Stadium, India defeated Pakistan by 7 wickets in their Group A clash of the Asia Cup.

• Result: India chased down Pakistan’s target comfortably, with Suryakumar Yadav finishing the game in style.

• Key Highlights:

• Arshdeep Singh’s brilliant opening spell.
• Shivam Dube’s composed batting.
• India’s clinical fielding that restricted Pakistan to a modest total.

While fans expected post-match camaraderie, what followed surprised everyone.

The No Handshake Incident

Traditionally, after every international match, players exchange handshakes as a mark of sportsmanship. However, in this game:

• At the toss, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav and Pakistan captain Babar Azam did not shake hands.
• After India’s win, the players headed straight to the dressing room without engaging in the handshake ritual.
• Pakistani players, according to reports, were left waiting at the boundary line for the customary greeting.

The visuals quickly went viral, sparking debates across social media and news outlets.

Why Did India Skip the Handshake?

The Indian team later clarified their stand:

• The gesture was symbolic, in solidarity with the victims of the recent Pahalgam terror attack.
• The team wanted to dedicate the victory to the armed forces and citizens affected by the tragedy.
• According to BCCI, the handshake is a tradition, not a rule, and players had every right to skip it in such circumstances.

In short, the move was less about Pakistan’s cricket team and more about making a political and emotional statement.

Pakistan’s Reaction

On the other hand, Pakistan expressed disappointment:

• Coach Mike Hesson said his players were ready to shake hands but were left “surprised and insulted.”
• The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) lodged a formal complaint with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Asian Cricket Council (ACC).
• PCB argued that the act violated the Spirit of Cricket and demanded accountability from the match referee.

This has now escalated into an official dispute, with ACC considering disciplinary action.

Spirit of Cricket vs. Politics

The “Spirit of Cricket” emphasizes respect, fair play, and camaraderie. But can political realities override it?

• Supporters of India say the gesture was a powerful symbolic stand, showing solidarity in tough times.
• Critics argue that politics should not interfere with sports, and players should maintain professionalism on the field.

This debate has divided experts, fans, and governing bodies alike.

Social Media & Public Reactions

As always, the internet had its own way of interpreting the drama:

Serious Takes

• “Sportsmanship is bigger than politics. This sets a bad precedent.”
• “India stood united with its soldiers. Respect the sentiment.”

Funny & Meme Reactions

• “Handshake skipped, rivalry upgraded to ‘Handshake DLC – Coming Next Series’.”
• “India vs Pakistan: Not just no handshake… next time maybe no coin toss either!”
• “At least they shook hands with their own teammates. Self-care is important.”
• “Babar Azam still waiting at the boundary line like the last guy in a group photo.”

Reddit and Twitter were flooded with memes, with some showing edited pictures of “hand sanitizers” being the new sponsor for the handshake moment.

What Happens Next?

The controversy has left a few open questions:

1. Will ICC/ACC issue new guidelines on mandatory handshakes?
2. Could this spark stricter rules for pre- and post-match ceremonies in high-tension fixtures?
3. Will fans now see more symbolic gestures instead of traditional courtesies in Indo-Pak matches?

Only time will tell whether this was a one-off moment or the beginning of a new normal in cricket diplomacy.

Conclusion

The India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 match will be remembered not just for India’s dominant win, but for the no-handshake controversy that overshadowed the game.

Whether seen as a political statement or a breach of sportsmanship, it highlights how cricket between India and Pakistan is never just about the game—it’s about identity, symbolism, and the emotions of millions.

And as the internet has already shown us: sometimes, even a skipped handshake can become bigger news than a winning six.