The high-voltage India vs Pakistan clash in the ongoing Asia Cup 2025 has spilled beyond the cricket field into a fresh controversy. Pakistan has lodged an official protest with the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) after Indian players reportedly refused to participate in the customary post-match handshake ceremony.
The Incident
The much-anticipated game, held at a packed stadium in Colombo, ended with India securing a narrow victory. However, instead of the usual handshake between the two teams, several Indian players were seen walking off the field directly toward their dressing room.
Pakistani players, waiting near the pitch, were left visibly surprised and later expressed disappointment. Team officials from Pakistan immediately conveyed their objections to match authorities, citing it as a breach of sportsmanship.
Pakistan’s Official Protest
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has formally written to the ACC, highlighting what it calls “unsporting behavior” from Indian cricketers. According to PCB officials, the refusal to shake hands violates the spirit of the game and undermines cricket’s role in promoting goodwill between the two nations.
One senior PCB member stated, “We expect cricket to rise above politics. If basic gestures of respect are ignored, it damages the reputation of the sport.”
India’s Response
The Indian camp has not issued an official statement yet. Sources close to the team, however, suggest that players may have skipped the handshake due to heightened emotions following the tense finish and security protocols in place after the match.
Some insiders also claim that scheduling issues and quick movement to dressing rooms for recovery sessions contributed to the incident.
Historical Context
Sportsmanship gestures such as handshakes have symbolic importance in India-Pakistan matches, which are often charged with political and emotional undertones. Previous tournaments have also witnessed controversies, but rarely has a team lodged an official protest over post-match etiquette.
Cricketing ties between the two nations remain limited to multi-nation tournaments due to political tensions, making every face-off highly scrutinized.
Reaction of Fans
Fans from both countries took to social media, fueling heated debates. Indian supporters defended the players, citing fatigue and tense scheduling, while Pakistani fans accused India of disrespecting tradition. Hashtags related to the controversy trended across platforms within hours of the match ending.
ACC’s Possible Action
The ACC now faces pressure to address the complaint. While post-match handshakes are not strictly mandated by cricket laws, they are considered an essential part of ICC’s Fair Play guidelines.
Analysts believe the ACC may issue a formal advisory to both teams to ensure similar incidents are avoided in future matches. However, punitive action against individual players is considered unlikely.
Cricketing Impact
The controversy risks overshadowing what was otherwise a thrilling contest. India’s win was hard-fought, featuring standout performances with both bat and ball. Pakistan, despite the loss, showed resilience and nearly pulled off a comeback.
Yet, instead of the cricket itself, it is the off-field drama that has grabbed headlines.
Political Overtones
Given the sensitive nature of India-Pakistan relations, the controversy has quickly acquired political overtones. Commentators warn that sports diplomacy could suffer further if such issues are not addressed with maturity.
Some political voices in Pakistan have already criticized India for “mixing politics with sports,” while Indian officials remain cautious in their responses.
Looking Ahead
Both teams are expected to meet again in the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup, raising anticipation for a rematch. Cricket boards and tournament organizers are now likely to ensure stricter protocols to avoid similar flashpoints.
