The second-round clash between India and Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four lived up to its billing, offering not just high-intensity cricket but also heated exchanges and post-match drama. India cruised to a six-wicket victory, but the absence of the customary handshake between the two sides once again stole the spotlight.
Handshake controversy lingers
After India’s win in the group stage, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha had skipped the post-match presentation, reportedly upset over India’s refusal to shake hands. However, in Sunday’s Super Four clash, Salman made a notable U-turn by attending the ceremony, conducted by former Pakistan cricketer Urooj Mumtaz.
Despite his attendance, players from both sides once again avoided the handshake ritual, raising questions about the fading spirit of sportsmanship in this iconic rivalry. Speaking earlier, Pakistan coach Mike Hesson had confirmed that Salman’s absence in the group stage was due to disappointment over India’s gesture.
India’s blazing start sets up win
With the bat, India dominated from the outset. Abhishek Sharma, in dazzling form, struck 74 off just 39 deliveries, smashing six fours and five sixes. He shared a blistering 105-run opening stand with Shubman Gill, who scored 47 off 28 balls. The duo ensured India raced past the hundred mark inside nine overs.
Though there was a brief wobble after the openers’ dismissal and Suryakumar Yadav’s golden duck, Tilak Varma (30* off 25) and Hardik Pandya (7* off 6) held their nerve to finish the chase in 18.5 overs.
Pakistan falter after strong start
Earlier, Pakistan appeared well-placed to post a competitive total. Sahibzada Farhan top-scored with 58, building a steady 72-run partnership with Saim Ayub (21) after the early loss of Fakhar Zaman. At 91/1 after 10 overs, Pakistan eyed a total well above 180.
However, India clawed back through Shivam Dube, who dismissed both set batters in quick succession. The middle order struggled to accelerate, and Pakistan finished at 171/6, a score India chased down comfortably.
Salman Ali Agha admits costly mistakes
Reflecting on the loss, Salman conceded that Pakistan’s poor powerplay bowling cost them dearly. “We are yet to play a perfect game, but we are getting there. Looking back, we could have scored 10–15 more runs. A total of 170–180 is good, but they batted too well in the powerplay,” he said.
Despite the loss, he found positives in the performances of Fakhar Zaman, Farhan and bowler Usama Mir, adding that the team would regroup ahead of their next match against Sri Lanka.
Rivalry loses its edge
The fiery encounter, punctuated by on-field exchanges between Indian openers and Pakistani pacers, once again highlighted the intensity of the contest. Yet, with India sealing back-to-back wins in the tournament — and nine wins out of their last ten T20 meetings against Pakistan — questions are being raised about whether the rivalry is losing its competitive balance.
The continuing handshake snub, however, ensures that the off-field drama remains alive, even as India tighten their grip on this high-profile rivalry.