Did Salman Agha Accuse India of 'Disrespecting Cricket' Over Handshake Snub?
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Synopsis
In a recent press conference, Pakistan captain Salman Agha accused the Indian cricket team of disrespecting the game by repeatedly refusing to shake hands with his players during the Asia Cup. This controversy raises critical questions about sportsmanship and respect in international cricket.
Key Takeaways
- Handshake snub raises concerns about sportsmanship.
- Salman Agha calls for respect in cricket.
- India's actions are viewed as a disrespect to the game.
- Delays in trophy presentation highlight underlying tensions.
- Need for mutual respect in international sports.
Dubai, Sep 29 (NationPress) Pakistan's captain Salman Agha expressed his discontent with the Indian cricket team, accusing them of disrespecting the sport due to their ongoing refusal to shake hands with Pakistani players throughout the Asia Cup.
The handshake controversy started on September 14 when India declined to shake hands with Pakistan players. This incident was repeated during the final, marking the third time in the tournament where Indian players avoided this gesture with their rivals.
Additionally, the Asia Cup final was overshadowed by another issue: a delay of over 90 minutes before the presentation ceremony, as India refused to accept the trophy from Mohsin Naqvi, the chief of the Asian Cricket Council and the Interior Minister of Pakistan.
“What India did during this tournament is quite disappointing. They are not just showing disrespect to us but to the game of cricket as well,” Agha stated at the press conference following Pakistan's five-wicket loss to India in the final.
“Top teams do not act in this manner. We posed with the trophy by ourselves because we wanted to meet our obligations. We stood there and received our medals. I hesitate to use strong language, but their actions have been very disrespectful,” he continued.
Agha further mentioned that if it were up to Suryakumar, he would have initiated a handshake before the toss, recalling that Suryakumar greeted him during the pre-tournament captains’ press conference on September 9.
“He shook my hand privately at the tournament's start. During both the pre-tournament press conference and our meeting at the referee's gathering. But when in front of the cameras, they avoid shaking hands. I believe he is following orders, but if it were his choice, he would shake hands with me,” Agha explained.
When asked about the Indian team not receiving the winners’ trophy, Agha remarked, “This is the first instance I have witnessed this. The events in this tournament were unfortunate and need to be addressed, as they are detrimental to cricket.
“Everything that transpired today was a result of earlier actions. Certainly, the ACC president will present the trophy to the victors. If they refuse to take it from him, how can they receive it?”
Point of View
It is crucial to maintain an unbiased perspective, acknowledging that both teams contribute to the spirit of cricket. The actions taken by players can significantly impact perceptions and relationships between nations, and it is essential to advocate for mutual respect and sportsmanship.
NationPress
29/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the handshake controversy in the Asia Cup?
The controversy began when the Indian team refused to shake hands with the Pakistani players on September 14, continuing through the tournament's final match.
How did Salman Agha respond to the situation?
Salman Agha expressed disappointment, stating that the actions of the Indian team disrespected not only Pakistan but cricket as a whole.
What happened during the Asia Cup final presentation?
There was a delay of over 90 minutes for the presentation ceremony, with the Indian team refusing to accept the trophy from the Asian Cricket Council chief.
