Sun Sep 14 15:10:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**India-Pakistan Asia Cup Clash Marred by Tension and Boycott Calls**

**Colombo, Sri Lanka** – The highly anticipated Asia Cup Group A match between India and Pakistan has begun amidst a storm of controversy and heightened tensions, fueled by recent events and strained relations between the two nations.

The match is taking place against a backdrop of national mourning in India, following the tragic Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor. This has led to widespread calls for a boycott of the match, with many questioning the appropriateness of the contest given the current circumstances. This marks the first cricket match between the two countries after the war that broke out earlier this year.

Adding to the friction, India captain Suryakumar Yadav notably refused the customary handshake with his Pakistani counterpart, Salman Ali Agha, at the toss. Reports indicate that Yadav informed his teammates of his decision beforehand, emphasizing that any interactions with Pakistani players would be a matter of personal choice. While Agha did not initiate a handshake either, he simply handed the team list to the umpire after the toss. This follows an incident earlier in the week where Agha was perceived to have snubbed Suryakumar’s handshake at a press conference, though later footage showed Agha returned to greet the Indian captain.

The Indian team’s stance appears to be influenced by recent actions and statements, including Pakistan all-rounder Faheem Ashraf’s alleged mockery of Operation Sindoor, which has ignited further outrage in India. Ashraf is playing in the match against India.

Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate revealed that the team is aware of the emotions of people back home, hinting at a deliberate effort to acknowledge and respect those sentiments. Head coach Gautam Gambhir has reportedly urged the team to focus on the cricket and ignore the outside noise.

The controversy has spilled over into social media, with Indian fans expressing mixed reactions, some criticizing Suryakumar for shaking hands with Agha and the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Mohsin Naqvi (who also chairs the Pakistan Cricket Board).

As the match unfolds, concerns remain about whether the existing tensions will impact the on-field atmosphere.

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