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DUBAI: Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha has finally addressed the much-debated handshake controversy ahead of Sunday’s historic Asia Cup 2025 final against India at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
This marks the first time in the tournament’s 41-year history that the arch-rivals will contest the final, and while the cricket has lived up to the billing, off-field controversies have dominated headlines.
The first flashpoint came in the group stage when Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav refused to shake hands with Salman at the toss.
The tension lingered as Yadav, after guiding his side to victory, walked straight off the field without greeting Pakistan’s players.
Along with teammate Shivam Dube, he retreated to the dressing room, leaving Pakistan’s squad waiting in vain for the customary post-match exchange.
In protest, Salman skipped the post-match press conference, leaving head coach Mike Hesson to front the media.
The uneasy atmosphere continued into the Super Four clash on September 21, with both teams again avoiding handshakes before and after the game.
Speaking at the pre-final press conference, Salman Ali Agha voiced his disappointment.
“I’ve been playing professional cricket since 2007, from the Under-16 level, and I had never seen anything like this until now,” he said.
“My father, who has followed cricket all his life, never mentioned such an incident either. Even in times when relations between the two countries were worse, handshakes still happened. This is not good for cricket.”
Earlier on Saturday, it was reported that the traditional pre-final trophy shoot would not take place after India declined participation. Asked about the development, Salman made it clear Pakistan would stick to protocol.
“They can do whatever they want,” he said. “We have our protocol, and we’ll follow that. If they want to come, they can come. If not, then not.”
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