Following Pakistan’s defeat to India in their Asia Cup clash, a new controversy has erupted — not about the cricket itself, but about what happened after the match. Or rather, what didn’t happen.

The absence of a post-match handshake between the Indian and Pakistani teams has triggered backlash from former players, fans, and now top officials. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi publicly expressed his disappointment, calling the gesture—or lack thereof—a violation of the spirit of the game.

Mohsin Naqvi Reacts on Social Media

Taking to social platform X (formerly Twitter), Mohsin Naqvi shared his dismay, writing:

"Extremely saddened to see the lack of sportsmanship. Bringing politics into sports is absolutely against the spirit of sports. Hopefully, all teams will be treated well in future winnings."

His comment comes amid claims that Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav did not shake hands with Pakistan captain Salman Agha during the toss or after the match, walking straight back to the dressing room instead.

Afridi Slams Pakistan’s Performance, Not Just the Handshake

Meanwhile, former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi had little patience for the outrage over handshakes, instead focusing on his team’s poor performance. Speaking to a local news channel, Afridi stressed that the team needed to take responsibility for the loss.

"If you want to win matches, you need to score runs first. Saim Ayub should calm down. Read the conditions, play the ball on its merit. You can’t try to be Shahid Afridi on the very first delivery."

Afridi didn’t spare the bowlers either, criticizing the management’s decision to rest key fast bowlers during a high-stakes match against India.

"Why were the main fast bowlers rested? You can't beat India with a half-strength attack. This wasn’t a fight — it was a surrender."

Match Recap: India Dominate with Ease

Pakistan batted first and were bundled out for just 127 runs. India chased down the target effortlessly, losing only three wickets in the process. The comprehensive defeat only added to the frustration in the Pakistan camp, with the post-match conduct becoming a flashpoint.

What’s Next?

With the PCB already lodging a formal complaint with the ICC regarding the conduct of Indian players and match referee Andy Pycroft, all eyes are on how cricket’s governing body will respond. Meanwhile, voices from within Pakistan continue to debate whether the issue is one of sportsmanship or a distraction from deeper problems within the team itself.