Sat Sep 27 15:06:21 UTC 2025: ## Handshake Controversy Shadows Asia Cup Final as India and Pakistan Clash
**Dubai, UAE** – The highly anticipated Asia Cup 2025 final between India and Pakistan is generating headlines beyond the cricket field, with a controversy surrounding the traditional pre-match handshake dominating pre-game discussions. Pakistan captain Salman Agha expressed his disappointment regarding India’s decision to forgo the customary handshake during their previous two encounters in the tournament, stating it was unprecedented in his experience, even during periods of strained Indo-Pakistani relations.
“I started playing U16 cricket in 2007. I never saw any teams not shaking hands. Even when Indo-Pak relations were worse we still shook hands,” Agha remarked during the pre-match press conference in Dubai.
India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, has remained firm on their stance. Following their initial victory against Pakistan, Yadav explained the team’s decision was rooted in a desire to “only play” and align with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the government.
“We took a call as we came here to only play. We gave a proper reply. We are aligned with BCCI and the government. I feel a few things in life are ahead of sportsman spirit,” Yadav stated, referencing the recent Pahalagam terror attack and dedicating the victory to the victims and armed forces.
Despite the off-field tensions, both teams are focused on the final. India has secured victories in their previous two matches against Pakistan in this tournament, winning the first by 7 wickets and the second by 6 wickets. Agha attributed Pakistan’s losses to making more mistakes than their opponents.
“India versus Pakistan matches come with baggage of pressure. In the last two games we lost because we made more mistakes,” he acknowledged.
While India enters the final on a six-match winning streak, Pakistan has won four of their six matches. Agha believes the pressure will be immense for both sides. “The final brings the same pressure on both teams. We don’t care what the Indian media says. For us, it’s only about doing the basics right.”
Agha also addressed his own performance, admitting his strike-rate hasn’t been satisfactory and emphasizing the importance of playing according to the situation. The final promises to be a high-stakes affair, with both teams vying for the Asia Cup title amidst the backdrop of ongoing political sensitivities.
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