India were absolutely dominant against the arch-rivals Pakistan in the Match No. 6 of the ongoing Asia Cup 2025. The Indians won the clash by seven wickets,
making their neighbours look like weaklings in the high-stakes clash at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, September 14. However, after the match ended, the Indian players walked off without following the custom of handshake with the opposition players and match officials.
The move was deliberate as the doors of the Indian dressing room were shut, leaving Pakistan players on the field bemused, as they did not expect such a move from the opposition. Notably, the decision to not shake hands with any Pakistan player comes amid the solidarity towards the sombre emotions in the country back home, following the horrific Pahalgam terror attacks earlier this year.
Check the video of the post-match moment here
For the unversed, the terrorist attack were allegedly Pakistanis, which has left a state of shock among India's countrymen for the heinous act their nation had to suffer through, as 26 innocent lives had to lose their lives, leaving the public in grief and a feeling of grudge against their neighbouring country and its government. India skipper Suryakumar Yadav, who also hit the winning six, expressed his grief towards the victims of the ghastly attacks.
Perfect occasion, taking the time out, we stand by the victims of the families of Pahalgam. We express our solidarity. Want to dedicate the win to all our armed forces. Hope they continue to inspire us all, he said at the post-match presentation.
Suryakumar was also the highest run-getter for the team in the crucial run-chase that has now made them the first team to qualify for the Super Four stages of the continental competition. He made an unbeaten 47 off just 37 balls to make sure the Men in Blue chased the target comfortably with 25 balls to spare against the Agha Salman-led side.
For the unversed, the Pakistan skipper also did not arrive for the speech at the post-match party. Whether it was a one-off by the broadcasters or Salman was not happy with players not engaging in a handshake, the reason for his absence from the post-match party remains unknown.
