A Controversy That Refuses to Die Down
The Asia Cup 2025, meant to be a celebration of cricketing spirit, has taken a sharp turn into diplomatic drama. The “handshake row” between India and Pakistan, sparked after the Indian players refrained from shaking hands with their Pakistani counterparts, has now snowballed into an international issue. What began as an on-field cold shoulder has escalated into a formal complaint lodged by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) with the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) in Dubai.
Pakistan’s Official Protest
According to sources close to the PCB, the protest alleges that India’s refusal to engage in the customary post-match handshake goes against the spirit of the game and violates established cricketing etiquette.
Officials described the act as “disrespectful” and “deliberately humiliating.” By taking the matter to Dubai, Pakistan has signaled its intent to push for disciplinary action and international acknowledgment of what it calls a “grievous breach of sportsmanship.”
India’s Silence and Strategic Posture
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), meanwhile, has maintained a stoic silence on the issue. While players have refrained from making public statements, insiders suggest that the decision to avoid handshakes was a collective move, possibly driven by the charged political climate between the two nations. India’s silence has been interpreted by Pakistan as both arrogance and tacit admission, further fueling tensions.
Beyond Cricket: Politics in Play
The row is not just about a missed handshake—it is a reflection of the strained ties between the two countries. Cricket, often seen as a bridge in South Asia, has once again become a battlefield of symbolism. Pakistan’s protest in Dubai could have broader diplomatic undertones, given the UAE’s role as a neutral ground for regional cricketing affairs. Observers note that this controversy may ripple into future bilateral relations, impacting upcoming tournaments and tours.
The Road Ahead for ACC
The Asian Cricket Council now faces the daunting task of balancing cricketing spirit with political sensitivities. If the ACC sides with Pakistan, India may push back strongly, creating further rifts.
If the matter is brushed aside, Pakistan will likely accuse the council of bias, deepening mistrust. Either way, the controversy ensures that the Asia Cup 2025 will be remembered as much for off-field drama as for on-field cricketing action.
The handshake row has become more than a fleeting gesture—it has morphed into a test of cricket diplomacy in South Asia. Whether the controversy fizzles out quietly or escalates into a prolonged standoff depends on how the ACC navigates Pakistan’s protest in Dubai. For now, what should have been a symbol of sportsmanship has turned into a symbol of division.
