During the 6th match of the Asia Cup 2025 between Pakistan and India, tensions flared as Indian players refused to shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts both at the toss and after the match.

This lack of basic sportsmanship disappointed cricket fans and officials alike, raising concerns over the spirit of the game.

Pakistan team manager Naveed Akram Cheema expressed his disapproval of the Indian players’ behavior, calling the refusal to shake hands “against the spirit of sportsmanship.”

He also revealed that the match referee had instructed the captains not to shake hands during the toss, adding to the strained atmosphere.

Following these incidents, Mohsin Naqvi, president of the Asian Cricket Council and chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board, strongly criticized the Indian team’s conduct.

He said he was deeply disappointed to see a lack of sportsmanship during the Pakistan-India clash and emphasized that mixing politics with sports goes against the true spirit of the game.

Naqvi expressed hope that in the future, all teams would celebrate their victories with respect and good manners, preserving the integrity of cricket.

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The match highlighted ongoing tensions between the two teams, with minimal friendly interaction observed throughout the game.

At the end of the match, Indian batsmen left the field without shaking hands, further fueling disappointment among fans who expect fair play and respect on the field.

Mohsin Naqvi’s remarks reflect a wider concern that rivalry and political issues are overshadowing the unifying nature of cricket.

This lack of camaraderie during such a high-profile event calls for renewed efforts by cricket authorities to promote respect, goodwill, and sportsmanship in the game moving forward.