Agha Accuses India of “Disrespecting Cricket”
Pakistan’s skipper Salman Ali Agha launched a sharp criticism of India’s behavior during the Asia Cup 2025, accusing them of showing disrespect to cricket traditions. He alleged that Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav shook hands with him privately but refused to do so in front of cameras.
Speaking after Pakistan’s five-wicket defeat to India in the final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Agha told reporters:
“He shook hands with me in private at the start of the tournament—during the press conference and referee’s meeting. But when the cameras were on, he didn’t. I believe he is following instructions, but personally, I know he would have.”
Trophy Controversy Deepens Tensions
The Asia Cup final ended in dramatic scenes when the Indian team refused to accept the Asia Cup trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chief and PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as Pakistan’s Interior Minister.
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India chose not to collect the trophy on stage.
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Naqvi left the venue with the trophy in hand.
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This left India unable to officially lift the Asia Cup title for the ninth time.
Agha expressed disappointment, saying:
“What India has done is very disappointing. By not shaking hands or taking the trophy, they are not disrespecting us—they are disrespecting cricket.”
Pakistan Captain’s Concern for Cricket Fans
The Pakistani skipper warned that India’s actions send a wrong message to cricket fans worldwide, especially to younger audiences who see players as role models.
“If a kid is watching in India or Pakistan, this sets a bad example. Good teams don’t act this way. What happened was very disappointing, and I hope it doesn’t continue—it’s bad for cricket.”
Despite the controversy, Agha admitted that India is currently the stronger team:
“We are not playing good cricket against them. In the 1990s, we used to dominate, now they are beating us. But very soon, our time will come again.”
Pakistan Donates Match Fees After Operation Sindoor
In a symbolic gesture, Agha announced that the Pakistan cricket team will donate their Asia Cup match fees to families of civilians killed during Operation Sindoor, the brief conflict between India and Pakistan in May.
“As a team, we are donating our match fees to our civilians who were affected during the Indian attack,” he said.
