The Super 4 match between India and Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 delivered all the intensity fans expected. Both sides played with aggression - mixing skill with verbal exchanges that kept spectators on edge.
The on-field battles included Shubman Gill trading words with Shaheen Afridi while Abhishek Sharma and Haris Rauf engaged in heated moments. Off the field, attention shifted to how players interacted after the game with one key aspect dominating headlines once again.
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India snubs Pakistan players by not shaking hands after Super 4 win
India comfortably defeated Pakistan thanks to Abhishek Sharma's quick 74. After the match, Indian batters Hardik Pandya and Tilak Varma walked straight to the dugout without offering a handshake to the Pakistan players.
This was not the first time India took this stance. During the group stage match, Suryakumar Yadav had finished the match with a massive six and along with Shivam Dube, ignored Pakistan players while heading off the field.
More: Asia Cup 2025 Super 4: Rules, format, schedule, points and teams explained
Potential fallout with PCB after handshake snub
India's previous refusal to shake hands had drawn strong reactions from the PCB who filed an official complaint with the ICC over the match referee's conduct.
While the ICC rejected the complaint, tensions ran high as Pakistan initially threatened to boycott a fixture against the UAE before eventually playing the match. With India once again avoiding the customary handshake, the PCB could raise concerns with the ICC - potentially reigniting controversy.
India's actions remain within ICC rules
It is important to note that according to ICC regulations, offering a handshake is not mandatory. India did not breach any code of conduct by walking off without acknowledging the opposition.
Still, the repeat occurrence has ensured that the handshake debate remains a talking point as the Asia Cup progresses.