The Asia Cup 2025 has been embroiled in controversy after India's team refused to shake hands with Pakistan's players following their recent match, sparking outrage and formal protests. This post-match snub, combined with other alleged incidents, has led to a tense situation that could potentially impact Pakistan's participation in the tournament.

Following India's victory over Pakistan, the Indian team, led by captain Suryakumar Yadav, walked straight back to the dressing room, foregoing the customary handshake with the Pakistani players. This action has been interpreted by some as a political statement, with Yadav dedicating the win to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and expressing solidarity with the armed forces. He stated that the team aligned with the government and the Board of Control for Cricket in India in their decision.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reacted strongly, lodging a formal protest with the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). They have also complained to match referee Andy Pycroft, stating that the umpires allowed the Indian team to leave the field without shaking hands. The PCB further alleges that Pycroft advised both captains against shaking hands at the toss, but no such guidance was given for after the game, leading to confusion and embarrassment for the Pakistani players. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi criticized India's actions, calling it a display of poor sportsmanship and dragging politics into the game.

Adding to the tension, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha boycotted the post-match presentation ceremony in protest. Head coach Mike Hesson expressed his disappointment, stating that the team was ready to shake hands but were let down by India's actions. He also confirmed that Agha's absence from the presentation was a direct result of the handshake snub.

The situation has escalated to the point where the PCB has demanded the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft, alleging that he intervened to prevent the customary handshake between the captains. They claim that Pycroft informed Agha that Yadav would not shake hands and spoke separately to the Indian captain about avoiding the gesture. The PCB has written to the International Cricket Council (ICC) demanding Pycroft's removal, though it is unlikely that the request will be granted.

The potential consequences of this escalating conflict could be severe. If Pakistan boycotts their upcoming match against the UAE, they risk being eliminated from the Asia Cup. Currently, Pakistan is second in Group A with one win from two matches. A forfeit would allow the UAE to advance to the Super 4 stage alongside India.

This handshake controversy has overshadowed the on-field performances and highlighted the political tensions that often accompany India-Pakistan sporting events. Whether the situation can be resolved diplomatically remains to be seen, but the stakes are high, with Pakistan's continued participation in the Asia Cup potentially hanging in the balance.