Asia Cup 2025: Tensions Rise as Pakistan Holds Silence and India Battles Dubai Heat

Pakistan canceled its pre-match conference before its crucial Asia Cup game against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Dubai on Wednesday but continued its practice at the International Cricket Council (ICC) Academy, the same venue where India trained, following the handshake controversy.

There were tensions and rumors that Pakistan might withdraw from its match against the UAE after the ICC denied the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) request to replace match referee Andy Pycroft. Pycroft reportedly informed Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha before the match against India that there would be no handshake at the toss with his Indian counterpart, Suryakumar Yadav.

As it currently stands, Pycroft is set to officiate the game between Pakistan and the UAE on Wednesday, which serves as a crucial match for securing a spot in the Super Fours, for which India has already qualified following consecutive victories in the tournament.

India commenced its training session at 6 p.m. local time, enduring the stifling heat for three hours, whereas the Pakistani team engaged in a light-hearted 20-minute football session around 8 p.m.

In related news, Apollo Tyres has become the new sponsor of Team India, taking over from Dream11 in a significant deal.

India, having lost only a total of four wickets in its dominant victories over the UAE and Pakistan, saw middle-order batters Sanju Samson, Axar Patel, and Hardik Pandya practicing in the open nets, followed by Shubman Gill and Suryakumar.

Harshit Rana tried his hand, landing some powerful hits, including one over extra-cover towards Ground 1, the area where the Pakistan team was training.

Due to the extensive time Indian bowlers have spent on the field, they undertook a lighter workout session. Considering the hot and humid conditions, pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah might be rested for the match against Oman on Friday, as India may face Pakistan again in an intense encounter on Sunday in the Super Fours.

Published on Sep 16, 2025