Cricket in 2025 was a year of triumphs overshadowed by deep divisions, as geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan spilt onto the field like never before.
From skipped handshakes and trophy snubs in the Asia Cup and Champions Trophy to provocative celebrations, tragic crowd management failures during RCB's historic IPL win, and a major verbal controversy involving South Africa's coach, these incidents ignited fierce debates on the spirit of the game, player conduct, and safety. Here are the most controversial moments that defined cricket's turbulent year.
India-Pakistan "No-Handshake" Policy in Asia Cup
In a move that deepened the rift between the two nations, the Indian cricket team, under captain Suryakumar Yadav, adhered strictly to a no-handshake policy with Pakistani players during
the Asia Cup and Champions Trophy. This decision stemmed from escalating geopolitical tensions, including recent terror incidents attributed to cross-border activities. The policy extended to refusing the trophy from the ACC president, who is Pakistani, and insisting on neutral venues like Dubai for their matches. The Pakistan Cricket Board lodged formal protests with the ICC, accusing India of injecting politics into the sport and undermining the spirit of cricket.
Haris Rauf and Other Players' Controversial Celebrations
Pakistani pacer Haris Rauf's "plane crash" mimicry celebration after taking wickets drew sharp criticism for insensitivity, especially after the Ahmedabad plane crash. Another player Sahubzada Farhan was also seen doing shooting celebration after a match against India. Similarly, Indian players like Jasprit Bumrah responded with gestures perceived as mocking political figures, leading to on-field altercations. The ICC imposed fines and short bans, warning against provocative acts. The entire Asia Cup went through amid boiling tempers.
The No Trophy in Asia Cup
A heated Asia Cup ended in further controversial circumstances. After winning the competition, Indian team refused to receive the trophy from PCB's Mohsin Naqvi, who, in reply, walked away with the trophy in astonishing circumstances! The Indian team didn't get to celebrate with their deserved silverware as criticism erupted over Naqvi childish act. Furthermore, the PCB chief refused to hand over the trophy and demanded the Indian team to act in his own terms.
RCB IPL Victory Stampede Tragedy
Royal Challengers Bengaluru's long-awaited IPL triumph on June 4 was marred by a deadly crowd crush outside M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, killing several fans and injuring dozens. Blamed on inadequate crowd control and false rumours of player appearances, the incident led to FIRs against organizers and BCCI officials. While the win celebrated Virat Kohli's legacy, the tragedy overshadowed it, sparking nationwide demands for better safety protocols at sporting events. Chinnaswamy Stadium was banned and it missed hosting Women's World Cup.
Shukri Conrad's "Grovel" Remark against India
South Africa head coach Shukri Conrad sparked widespread outrage after Day 4 of the second Test in Guwahati by saying his team wanted India to "really grovel" in the field by batting long and setting a massive target. The word, echoing Tony Greig's infamous 1976 racially charged comment against West Indies, was deemed insensitive given cricket's colonial history. Indian legends like Anil Kumble, Sunil Gavaskar, and Cheteshwar Pujara criticized it as disrespectful, while even South Africa's Dale Steyn distanced himself. Conrad later regretted the choice, admitting he could have used better words with no malice intended, but the row overshadowed the Proteas' historic series win
The Harshit Rana Saga - Srikkanth vs Gambhir
Harshit Rana and a series of war of words erupted when former selector Krishnamachari Srikkanth accused the young Delhi pacer of being a "constant yes-man" to head coach Gautam Gambhir, implying favoritism due to their KKR ties. Srikkanth questioned Rana's repeated selections across formats despite inconsistent performances, like in the Asia Cup, suggesting merit was overlooked. Gambhir fiercely defended the 23-year-old, calling the criticism "shameful" and unfair personal attacks aimed at boosting YouTube views. BCCI backed Gambhir, urging responsible commentary. Rana later silenced doubters with strong showings, including a four-wicket haul against Australia
