A customary press conference without greetings sparked a huge buzz before the India-Pakistan clash at the Asia Cup 2025.

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The Indian and Pakistani skippers were seen avoiding handshakes during the customary captains' press conference conducted by the Asia Cricket Council (ACC). Throughout the press meet, the majority of the questions were asked to Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav and his Pakistan counterpart Salman Ali Agha. 

Generally, after such press meets, a customary handshake or embrace is offered between skippers. However, Yadav and Agha ended the proceedings with a silent exit, without hugs or on‑stage greetings.

The Handshake Drama 

After initial controversy, another video surfaced on social media where Suryakumar briefly shook hands with the Pakistani all-rounder while getting down from the stage.

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Meanwhile, the handshake has been a talking point since the recently concluded test series between India and England. 

During the fourth Test match at Old Trafford, Ben Stokes offered a handshake to Ravindra Jadeja to agree to a draw, but the Indian all-rounder refused as he and Washington Sundar were nearing their centuries. Several English players reacted negatively, but the Indian pair reached their hundreds, securing a draw to keep the trophy alive. The incident generated debate about sportsmanship. 

The Heat is On

It’s always been an exhilarating contest when arch-rivals met on the ground. The reporters asked about the aggression among the players and how to keep their emotions in check for the upcoming high-voltage match. Suryakumar Yadav responded: "Aggression is always there on the field. Without aggression, you cannot play the sport. I am very excited to take the field from tomorrow."

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On the other hand, the Pakistani skipper quoted saying: “You don't need to say anything to anyone. If anyone wants to be aggressive, they are more than welcome to do that. The fast bowlers, they always want to be aggressive, because that's what keeps them going. If anyone wants to be aggressive, they are more than welcome to do that. From my side, there is no instruction to anyone as long as they keep it on the ground."

About Asia Cup 2025

This year, the Asia Cup format features two groups: the ‘A’ group consisting of India, Pakistan, UAE, and Oman, while Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and Hong Kong are in group B. India enters the contest as the reigning T20 World champion and the defending Asia Cup winner, while Pakistan recently won the tri-series featuring hosts UAE and Afghanistan. India and Pakistan will face off on September 14 in the Asia Cup Group A match in Dubai.