The Asia Cup Group A India versus Pakistan encounter has sparked considerable controversy, with Indian cricket fans expressing their dissatisfaction. Numerous fans have voiced their discontent, especially given that the country was reeling from the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor, leading to calls for a boycott. Rising political tensions between the two nations have exacerbated the situation. This match is also the first cricket meeting between the teams following the conflict earlier this year, intensifying feelings.
A dramatic moment unfolded during the toss. India’s captain, Suryakumar Yadav, did not participate in the customary handshake with Pakistan’s captain, Salman Ali Agha. After the captains were presented, Suryakumar refrained from extending his hand, and Agha offered no gesture of greeting. He simply provided the team sheet to the umpire before returning to the dressing room. The exchange included neither handshakes nor eye contact.
Prior to the game, Indian assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate stated the team’s understanding of public sentiment, emphasizing their empathy with the country’s emotional state. Suryakumar’s actions seemed to show the team mirroring those emotions on the field.