Did Ponting Really Call India the 'Big Loser' Over Handshake Controversy?
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Synopsis
In a recent clash during the Asia Cup, Ricky Ponting was falsely accused of criticizing India's handshake snub against Pakistan. Discover how social media misquoted him, and the fallout from this incident, including reactions from cricketing authorities and team captains. Dive into the details behind this controversy and its implications for future matches.
Key Takeaways
- Ricky Ponting faced false accusations regarding his comments on a handshake incident.
- India's decision to skip handshakes was aligned with government directives.
- Netizens reacted strongly to the misattributed quote.
- The PCB has taken formal steps against the match referee.
- Future encounters between India and Pakistan in the tournament are likely.
New Delhi, Sep 16 (NationPress) Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has made a statement following false accusations regarding his remarks on Team India’s handshake incident with Pakistan after their recent group stage match in the Asia Cup.
Following India's decisive seven-wicket victory over Pakistan, the players headed directly to the dressing room without offering handshakes to their opponents. In the aftermath, a quote started circulating on social media, incorrectly attributing criticism of the Indian players' actions to Ponting.
According to Fox Sports, users on X wrongly claimed that Ponting commented on Sky Sports, stating, “This match will be remembered forever with India as the big loser. The Pakistani team’s desire to shake hands at the end has elevated them as champions of the gentleman’s game, while India remains the constant loser.”
Netizens reacted strongly, directing their ire towards Ponting for his alleged comments regarding the Men in Blue.
To clarify the situation, Ponting took to X to assert, “I am aware of certain remarks attributed to me on social media. Please understand that I categorically deny making those statements and have not made any public comments about the Asia Cup.”
India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav, addressing the press post-match, explained that the decision to forgo handshakes was made in accordance with the directives of the Indian government.
This action drew criticism from PCB and ACC chair Mohsin Naqvi, who later announced that the Pakistani board has filed a complaint with the ICC and called for the immediate dismissal of match referee Andy Pycroft from the Asia Cup.
The India-Pakistan clash took place despite calls for a boycott, and both teams may meet again in the tournament's Super Four stage and possibly the final, should they both advance.
Point of View
It is vital to report on the integrity of the game and the importance of accurate representations of public figures. This incident highlights the dangers of misinformation in sports and the impact it can have on players and fans alike. We stand by the principle of fair reporting, ensuring that all voices are heard.
NationPress
04/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Ricky Ponting allegedly say?
Ponting was falsely quoted as saying that India would be remembered as the 'big loser' due to their handshake snub with Pakistan.
How did Ponting respond to the allegations?
Ponting clarified on social media that he did not make those statements and has not publicly commented on the Asia Cup.
What was India's reason for not shaking hands?
India's captain stated that the decision to not shake hands was made in accordance with the directives of the Indian government.
What actions did the PCB take in response?
The PCB lodged a complaint with the ICC and called for the removal of the match referee due to the incident.
Could India and Pakistan meet again in the Asia Cup?
Yes, both teams could face each other again in the Super Four stage or the final if they progress.
