Pakistan Captain Salman Agha Criticizes India’s Gesture Snub in Cricket Contest

After another India-Pakistan match in the Asia Cup concluded with controversy, the victorious Indian team refused to accept the trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president Mohsin Naqvi. Salman Agha, the captain of Pakistan, criticized India for disrespecting the sport.

“What happened in this tournament is quite disappointing. They might think by not shaking hands they’re showing us disrespect, but in reality, they’re disrespecting cricket. A true sportsmanship gesture was not shown by them,” Agha stated during the post-match press conference, which took place late at night at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium following India’s five-wicket victory over Pakistan in the final.

Agha added, “A reputable team would have acted as we did. I went alone for the trophy photoshoot, and then we collected the medals.”

Due to ongoing tensions between the countries, the Indian team opted not to accept the trophy from Naqvi, who also holds positions as Pakistan’s Interior Minister and chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav was absent from the captains’ photoshoot before the final on Sunday, and Indian players did not engage in post-match handshakes for the third time during the tournament.

Additionally, Agha commented that the Indian captain avoided customary handshakes for appearance’s sake, despite a previous handshake during the pre-tournament captains’ press conference on September 9. “He shook hands during the press conference and the referee meeting. But when it’s in front of the world, they don’t do it. He’d probably do it if it were up to him, but he’s likely following orders,” Agha remarked.

When inquired about India’s decision not to accept the winners’ trophy, Agha responded, “The ACC president presents the trophy. If you don’t accept it from him, how will you get it?”

Following Suryakumar Yadav’s lead, who announced donating his match fees from the Asia Cup to the Indian armed forces, Agha revealed that the entire Pakistan team was donating its proceeds to those affected by “Indian attacks,” referring to military operations conducted by the Indian Army against terrorist targets across the border.

“As a team, we’re donating our match fees to civilians and children affected by the Indian attacks,” Agha concluded.

Published on September 29, 2025.