The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has lodged an official complaint with the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) after Indian players declined to shake hands with Pakistan cricketers following their Asia Cup 2025 clash in Dubai.

India secured a seven-wicket win in the high-voltage encounter, but the post-match moment sparked controversy. Captain Suryakumar Yadav and teammate Shivam Dube walked off the field without the customary handshake, leaving the Pakistan side visibly upset. In protest, Pakistan skipper Salman Agha skipped the post-match interview.

PCB team manager Naveed Cheema described the gesture as “unsporting and against the spirit of the game.” The board also confirmed that as a form of protest, Pakistan did not send its captain for the official presentation ceremony.

Responding to the criticism, Suryakumar Yadav said the decision was taken collectively by the Indian team, dedicating the win to the Indian armed forces. He recalled the Pahalgam terrorist attack of April 22, which claimed 26 lives, and said the victory was a tribute to soldiers involved in Operation Sindoor, launched in retaliation.

“We took a team call. Some things are beyond sportsmanship. This win is dedicated to our armed forces and the families of the victims,” Suryakumar said.

Interestingly, PCB’s statement also mentioned that match referee Andy Pycroft had advised both captains ahead of the toss that the traditional handshake should be skipped, citing security and political sensitivities. Despite this, PCB termed India’s stand as “against the spirit of cricket.”

The controversy has added another chapter to the intense India-Pakistan cricket rivalry, with both boards standing firm on their positions.