On the eve of the historic Asia Cup 2025 final, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha struck an optimistic tone, backing his side to rise to the occasion against arch-rivals India — even as the lingering handshake controversy once again stole headlines.
Speaking to the press in Dubai on Saturday, Agha said Pakistan are determined to play their “best cricket” in Sunday’s final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, their first title clash against India in over four decades.
“There is definitely pressure in a Pakistan-India match, but if we make fewer mistakes than before, we can win,” Agha told reporters with a smile. “Our strive is to play our best cricket, and if we execute our plans for the 40 overs, then we can beat any team. You’ll see us winning.”
Pakistan’s path to the final came after an 11-run Super Four victory over Bangladesh, while India stormed through the tournament unbeaten. Despite losing both previous meetings to India in this edition, Agha insisted the Green Shirts can turn the tables when it matters most.
Handshake row returns before the final
But as much as cricket dominates the build-up, the rivalry’s off-field drama refuses to go away. Agha once again addressed the handshake row that has overshadowed this Asia Cup, saying such behaviour damages the spirit of the game.
“I’ve been playing competitive cricket since 2007. I’ve never seen a game go without a handshake. It is not good for cricket,” Agha said. “Even in worse times, players have shaken hands.”
The controversy first erupted in the group stage when Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav declined to shake hands with Agha at the toss and again after India’s win, sparking a formal protest from the Pakistan team. Match referee Andy Pycroft later apologised, calling it a “miscommunication,” but the cold exchanges resurfaced in the Super Four clash, where handshakes were skipped again.
Cricket and symbolism collide
With political tensions in the backdrop, every gesture has taken on extra weight. For many fans, whether the captains stand together for the pre-final trophy shoot — a decision organisers say will only be confirmed on match day — could set the tone for the biggest rivalry in cricket.
Still, Agha chose to keep the focus on the contest itself. “We know what’s at stake,” he said. “Our job is to play fearless cricket and make Pakistan proud.”
On Sunday, it won’t just be about bat and ball. It will be about nerves, pride, and whether sportsmanship can hold up in cricket’s fiercest battle.
