Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president and PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi has criticised the Indian cricket team for not shaking hands with Pakistan players during their Asia Cup Group A clash, accusing them of bringing politics into sport.
The controversy erupted after India’s seven-wicket win over Pakistan, where captain Suryakumar Yadav reportedly skipped the customary handshake with Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha at the toss. Following the match, the Indian team also did not join post-match formalities, leaving the Pakistani players waiting outside their dressing room.
Addressing reporters, Naqvi said the incident violated the spirit of the game and reflected poorly on cricketing traditions.
Suryakumar later defended the decision, stating that certain values were more important than ceremonial gestures. He dedicated India’s victory to the armed forces engaged in Operation Sindoor and paid tribute to victims of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam.
Left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who was named Player of the Match for his match-winning spell, said the win was an emotional one for the team. Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha did not attend the post-match presentation ceremony.
