Handshake Dispute in Asia Cup 2025: Insights from Pakistan Captain Salman Ali Agha
In a recent discussion, Pakistan’s captain, Salman Ali Agha, shared his experience regarding the handshake controversy that arose during the Asia Cup 2025. After a tense match between India and Pakistan, Agha mentioned that his team even attempted to visit the Indian dressing room for a handshake, but were met with closed doors.
Reflecting on the event, Agha explained that the no-handshake policy was only brought to his attention just before the toss. “Before the toss, we had a press conference and a trophy photo session where handshakes took place. I was feeling quite normal going into the toss,” he said, recalling the incident. “However, just before the toss, the match referee informed me that handshakes would not be happening.”
He felt somewhat relieved by the decision, stating, “It’s fine if there’s not going to be a handshake. I’m not too keen either.”
After the match, even though Pakistan lost, Agha and his team went to greet their rivals, hoping for a handshake. Unfortunately, they found no one from the Indian team available. “We went towards their dressing room, but they didn’t come out to shake hands,” he noted.
Agha expressed his concerns about the no-handshake policy, believing it might send the wrong message to younger players. “I’ve mentioned this before: if I represent Pakistan, kids look up to us. If such behavior continues, it sets a poor example,” he added, emphasizing the influence players have on the next generation.
This no-handshake trend has persisted in various formats, including the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 and Under-19 Asia Cup matches, continuing to create a ripple effect in cricketing tournaments.
As rivalries deepen, it remains to be seen how these gestures—or the lack thereof—will impact future encounters between the two teams.
