On September 14, 2025, in Dubai, India emphatically defeated Pakistan by seven wickets in the Asia Cup — but the match will be remembered more for what didn’t happen than what did.
No Handshake, Big Statement
The customary handshake before the coin toss? Didn’t happen.
After the match? Also skipped.
India’s captain, Suryakumar Yadav, remained unbeaten on 47 off 37 balls and skipped the post-match handshake with Salman Ali Agha and the Pakistani team. The decision wasn’t spontaneous: Yadav reportedly informed his team on the morning of the match, though players were left with the freedom to make their individual choice.
When asked afterwards, Yadav dedicated the victory to India’s Armed Forces and expressed solidarity with the families of the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack. “We stand with the families of victims of Pahalgam attack … we want to dedicate today’s win to the Armed Forces.
On the Field
From the start, India dominated. Their spinners bowled with precision, squeezing Pakistan’s batting lineup into submission. Meanwhile, the Indian batsmen—led by a blistering start from Abhishek Sharma—never let the pressure slip. There were moments of intensity: a couple of missed catches, some vociferous appeals, but overall, India controlled the rhythm.
Pakistan supporters occasionally stirred when their batsmen hit boundaries, but those instances were few. India’s fans, emboldened by the performance, showed more confidence and celebrated with greater frequency.
Emotions Off the Pitch
The match took place under the shadow of political and emotional tension. Earlier in April, the Pahalgam attack had shaken many. In May, India launched Operation Sindoor targeting terror elements in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, leading to retaliation and a suspension of hostilities
That backdrop gave weight to Yadav’s decision to forgo the traditional handshake. It became a symbolic gesture, signaling where India stood without overt confrontation. The silence spoke
What It Means
This match is likely to be replayed in memories not for high-scoring drama or last-ball finishes, but for a different kind of drama — one rooted in symbolism, political tension, and national sentiment.
When cricket meets geopolitics, the hard boundaries of sport blur. This was one such moment: a seven-wicket win, a skipped handshake, and a message delivered through silence.
Source:THE INDIAN EXPRESS
