WEB DESK: Cricket’s most intense rivalry resumes this Sunday as India and Pakistan face off once again in the Asia Cup — just a week after their last encounter was marred by a controversy over a refused handshake.
India emerged victorious in the September 14 group-stage clash in Dubai, defeating Pakistan by seven wickets. However, post-match headlines were dominated not by the result, but by India’s refusal to shake hands with the Pakistani players — a move that reportedly infuriated the Pakistan camp.
That match was the first meeting between the two sides since a deadly four-day conflict in May that claimed over 70 lives. The volatile backdrop of political and military tensions has added extra heat to an already fiery cricketing rivalry.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) lodged an official complaint with the International Cricket Council (ICC), claiming that match referee Andy Pycroft advised Pakistan captain Salman Agha not to shake hands with India’s Suryakumar Yadav during the toss. The PCB demanded Pycroft’s removal from their remaining fixtures and even threatened to pull out of the tournament.
Their final group-stage game was delayed for over an hour, reportedly until Pycroft issued an apology. The match eventually proceeded, with Pakistan defeating hosts UAE to advance to the Super Fours — setting up yet another clash with India in Dubai.
Indian media reports suggest that the Indian team will continue its no-handshake stance in Sunday’s game. The rationale behind the policy has not been officially explained, but it’s widely believed to be a precautionary diplomatic move amid ongoing tensions.
“When you step onto the field, it’s just a batter in front of you. I’ve always looked at it that way, even against Pakistan,” he said ahead of India’s group-stage fixture against Oman.
“If we play good cricket like we have in the last few months, I think we’ll be competitive against any side,” he told reporters.
Due to the strained political ties between the two nuclear-armed nations, India and Pakistan only compete at neutral venues during international tournaments. This year’s Asia Cup has gained added significance following the May hostilities, which were sparked by an attack in Indian-administered Kashmir. India accused Pakistan of backing the perpetrators — an allegation Islamabad denies.
Despite calls from some quarters for a boycott, India went ahead with the first match against Pakistan. If both sides advance through the Super Fours, a potential third showdown looms in the final on September 28.
India, the defending champions from the last 50-over edition, are strong favourites to lift the title again. Along with Pakistan, they progressed from Group A. Sri Lanka and Bangladesh made it through from Group B.
Sri Lanka, still unbeaten, face Bangladesh in the opening Super Fours match on Saturday. Led by Litton Das, Bangladesh enter as underdogs but will be looking to cause an upset.
The Asia Cup also serves as key preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup, set for February-March in India and Sri Lanka. But for now, all eyes are on Sunday — and the next chapter of a rivalry that goes far beyond the boundary ropes.
