IND vs PAK handshake controversy: Cricket match hai, isko political mat banao says Shohaib Akhtar

The Asia Cup 2025 match between India and Pakistan was expected to be smoldering at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, and it did justice to it off and off the field. While India comfortably clinched the seven-wicket win, it wasn’t the cricketing stuff that was the major headline. The post-final-ball incidents escalated into a serious rift throughout the cricketing fraternity. It was the IND vs PAK handshake controversy that became the topic of discussion.

Before we jump into the matter, be aware that Cricket updates and Match Insights from Starexchange guarantee that you do not just know the score but also comprehend what led to it. And this Ind vs Pak match was far from just a scoreboard story.

An Impressive Indian Performance

Confident and with a strategic plan, India entered the Group A game. Bowler pressure was on Pakistan right from the start, and with disciplined line and length, the Indian attack restricted Pakistan to just 127 for 9 in their allotted twenty overs. 

Keeping that modest target in mind, India wasted no time, and despite the fall of three wickets, their top order ensured the match ended in 15.5 overs. A professional and dominating performance that hinted at the balance and depth of India. On paper, it was a straightforward win. But then there was a night as the sun went down-for reasons quite beyond batting or bowling. 

Handshake Controversy

The IND vs PAK handshake controversy was the center of attention for the cricket fans. Historically speaking, matches between India and Pakistan inevitably end with a handshake. That is a sign of respect and, in the intensity of rivalry, something which reminds players of their manners. But this time, however, all that was different. 

After the Pakistan players had stood on the field waiting for the good old handshake, the Indian team had already made its way back in. Footage from the stadium showed Indian support staff as they slammed shut the doors to the dressing room, leaving the Pakistan players confused and stranded. 

That left an unusual event for an even bigger talking point of the night. While fans speculated reasons for what had happened on social media, opinions were joined by cricketers and analysts, further exacerbating the debate.

Shoaib Akhtar’s Outspoken Response

Shoaib Akhtar, a former fast bowler from Pakistan, did not mince words in asking about the incident. During a show after the match, he expressed being “disheartened” by the IND vs PAK handshake controversy and implored both teams to disengage political issues from cricket. 

“I am lost for words. Disheartening to watch, don’t know what to say. Hats off to India. Don’t politicise it now. The match is cricket, don’t politicise it. Fights happen even within your house; leave it, move on. This is cricket; shake hands and show class,” said Akhtar. 

The Rawalpindi Express went as far as to back the decision of the captain of Pakistan, Salman Ali Agha, to not attend the post-match presentation ceremony, declaring it right in the given circumstances.

A Rivalry Beyond Cricket

The tension surrounding India and Pakistan on the cricket field is different from any other sporting rivalry across the globe. The fixture on Sunday was the first encounter between the two sides after relations soured earlier this year following the Pahalgam terror attack.

There were many voices in India calling for a boycott on the eve of the match. Tournament rules, however, did not allow for the same. But the manner in which India acted following its victory was seen very much as giving vent to sentiments beyond cricket. 

For decades, the emotional weight of an Indo-Pak encounter has transcended sport. It is never just another match with runs, wickets, or records. It is all about pride, politics, and passionate feelings. This encounter reminded everyone that this rivalry is about both what happens off or away the field.

Match Insights from Starexchange

At Starexchange, also known as Starexch, we keep going beyond mere scores. Testament to this are key Match Insights from the game: 

• Bowling Brilliance: India’s bowlers did very well at not allowing any batters of Pakistan to get settled, utilizing variations and field placements very smartly.
• Chase with Intent: the approach was aggressive from India; even though it is a very small target, it shows confidence before facing the more serious matches.
• Mental Pressure: That handshake incident reminded us that the off-field shenanigans affect the whole perception of the contest, just like an on-field performance.
• Leadership Choices: Salman Ali Agha’s choice to skip the post-match ceremony may divide opinion, but it reflects the emotional strain of leading in such high-stakes contests.

The Bigger Picture

The cricket itself was lopsided, but the aftereffects ensured that this game would be remembered for much more than a mere scoreline. India denied the handshake rite and many see it as unsporting, while others will see in it a symbolic gesture reflecting the nation’s sentiment. 

The purposes that can be given to it remain a subjective option, but there’s one fact for sure: somewhere behind the 22 yards, whenever there is a clash between India and Pakistan, it emerges beyond the playing arena. Sporting activities become reminders of the struggles reflected in much deeper political and cultural tensions. What is your take on the IND vs PAK handshake controversy? Let us know in the comments section.

For cricket buffs, the Asia Cup 2025 will move forth with more matches and more stories, but this clash, with all its columns of dominance and controversy, has already put its foot down in the long and dramatic chronicles of Indo-Pak cricket. 

FAQs

1.Where can I find reliable cricket updates on the Asia Cup 2025 matches?

A: You can follow platforms like Starexchange, where you will get timely and detailed cricket updates along with expert Match Insights.

2.Why did India skip the handshake after the Asia Cup 2025 match against Pakistan?

A: No official stance has been taken; however, the gesture seemed to reflect heightened geopolitics and national sentiment.

3.Was the Pakistani captain there for the post-match presentation?

A: No. Salman Ali Agha chose not to attend the presentation ceremony, a decision that was backed by several former cricketers, including Shoaib Akhtar.

4.Will India meet Pakistan again in this tournament?

A: There is a possibility that both teams could face each other again during the knockout stage in light of the results in the group stages.