Asia Cup 2025: The Handshake That Never Happened – Politics, Pride, and the Spirit of Cricket

Introduction: A Match Beyond the Boundary

Whenever India faces Pakistan on the cricket field, it is more than just a game — it’s a collision of history, politics, and national pride. In the latest Asia Cup clash, India’s decision to skip the traditional post-match handshake with Pakistan sparked a storm of discussions, adding another layer to their already intense rivalry. While cricket fans anticipated fireworks on the pitch, few expected the controversy that followed once the match ended.

The Incident That Stirred Debate

India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, put up a stellar performance to clinch victory. However, instead of the expected moment of sportsmanship, the Indian players walked off without exchanging handshakes with their Pakistani counterparts. The move was criticized by some as unsporting, while others saw it as a silent yet powerful statement amid ongoing political tensions between the two nations.

Former cricketer Ramiz Raja even questioned ICC referee Andy Pycroft’s neutrality, while Indian veteran Irfan Pathan defended the team, emphasizing that “everything is in alignment” with India’s stance on cricketing relations with Pakistan.

The Bigger Picture: Politics and Cricket Intertwined

India and Pakistan have a complex relationship where cricket often becomes a diplomatic tool. With cross-border tensions and limited bilateral series, their encounters are mostly restricted to ICC tournaments. In this atmosphere, every action  from a handshake to a stare  takes on amplified meaning.

For many Indian players, avoiding the handshake was not about disrespect but about aligning with the larger sentiment of the nation, reflecting the current state of political relations.

The Spirit of the Game: Where Do We Draw the Line?

While national pride is important, cricket has always been celebrated as a sport that unites people across borders. Skipping the handshake raises questions: Should sportsmanship be compromised for politics? Or is it a necessary stand in today’s climate? Fans are divided, with some calling for grace and others supporting the team’s decision.

Conclusion

The Asia Cup 2025 handshake controversy is a reminder that India-Pakistan cricket matches will always carry weight beyond runs and wickets. Until relations between the two countries improve, the game will remain a battleground for more than just cricketing glory  where even a simple handshake can spark a national debate.