In a tense twist to the Asia Cup Group A match in Dubai, Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson voiced his frustration over Indian players skipping the traditional post-match handshakes. The snub came after India’s easy seven-wicket win on Sunday, leaving Hesson disappointed. “We were ready to shake hands. It’s disappointing the opposition didn’t do that,” he said during the press conference. Hesson highlighted that his team saw the gesture as a key sign of respect between rivals, win or lose.
The drama unfolded at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, where India dominated from start to finish. Pakistan managed just 127/9 in their 20 overs, thanks to a sharp spin attack from the Indian bowlers. Kuldeep Yadav shone brightest with impressive figures of 3/18, while Axar Patel grabbed 2/18 and Varun Chakaravarthy added 1/24. Their control on the slow pitch stifled Pakistan’s batsmen completely—this marked the second straight game where India’s spinners turned the tide.
Chasing a modest target, India raced to victory in only 15.5 overs. Skipper Suryakumar Yadav played a captain’s knock, remaining unbeaten on 47 off 37 balls, with Shivam Dube finishing not out on 10. The win earned India two crucial points in Group A and boosted their Asia Cup campaign.
Tensions simmered even before the first ball. At the toss, captains Suryakumar and Pakistan’s Salman Agha skipped the usual handshake. After the match, Indian players simply walked off the field, avoiding any eye contact or courtesies with the opposition. Reports say Hesson later met the match referee, though no official word has come out yet.
Adding an emotional layer, Suryakumar dedicated the victory to India’s armed forces. He praised their bravery and commitment, especially after the recent Pahalgam terror attack, saying it inspired the team to perform at their best.
This handshake controversy has only heightened the spotlight on the India-Pakistan cricket rivalry, blending on-field thrills with off-field intrigue. Fans are already buzzing about what comes next in the Asia Cup.
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