In the high-stakes Asia Cup clash in Dubai, Pakistan’s white-ball head coach Mike Hesson opened up about why captain Salman Ali Agha skipped the post-match presentation after their disappointing seven-wicket defeat to India. The match, which saw India chase down a modest 128-run target with ease, ended on a tense note amid the ongoing India-Pakistan rivalry.
The drama started even before the first ball. At the toss, Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav and Salman avoided the usual handshake, skipping eye contact and the friendly gesture entirely. This unusual move stemmed from the strained ties between the two nations, triggered by the tragic terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam on April 22. That brutal incident, carried out by Pakistan-sponsored terrorists, claimed 26 innocent tourist lives and deepened the rift.
India powered to victory, with Suryakumar smashing a massive six to seal the win. But instead of the traditional post-match handshake, he and partner Shivam Dube headed straight to the dressing room. When it was time for the presentation, Salman was nowhere to be found, sparking plenty of questions about his absence.
Hesson addressed the handshake snub and subtly hinted it might have influenced Salman’s decision. Speaking at the post-match press conference, he expressed frustration: “We were ready to shake hands. We’re obviously disappointed that our opposition didn’t do that. We went over there to shake hands, but they had already gone to the changing room. That was a disappointing way for the match to finish. We were willing and keen to shake hands at the end, but it didn’t happen.”
On India’s side, Suryakumar kept it straightforward during his press conference. “I feel a few things in life are ahead of sportsman spirit,” he said, underscoring the bigger picture behind the no-handshake stance.
This Asia Cup encounter highlighted how off-field tensions continue to shadow the intense India-Pakistan cricket rivalry, leaving fans talking about more than just the game.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
