Handshake Row to Verbal Volley: India-Pak Feud Heats Up Asia Cup

Early Drama in the League Stage

The current tension between India and Pakistan stems from their two encounters in the Asia Cup 2025. On September 14, during the league stage, Pakistan batted first but collapsed to 127 all out. Outstanding bowling performances by Kuldeep Yadav (3/18) and Axar Patel (2/18) led India to a seven-wicket victory, highlighted by Abhishek Sharma’s explosive 31 off 13 balls.

Off-Field Tensions Spark Controversy

The match drew further attention when Kuldeep Yadav refused to shake hands with Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha at the toss and post-match, following a team decision in solidarity with victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor. Despite Pakistan’s complaints to the ICC, match referee Andy Pycroft upheld standard protocols.

Super Four Clash Intensifies Rivalry

The rivalry escalated during the Super Four stage, where India again triumphed with a six-wicket win while chasing a low target. Pakistan’s Haris Rauf tried to provoke the Indian side, but Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill responded strongly. Post-match, Yadav made headlines with his mic-drop comment:
“Rivalry exists only if it’s 7, 8; here it’s 10, 1 in our favour.”

Afridi Fires Back Ahead of Bangladesh Match

Before Pakistan faced Bangladesh, Shaheen Afridi expressed his frustration, stating:
“That’s his opinion. Neither side is in the final yet; let’s see what happens. We’re here to win the Cup.”
His words served as a direct challenge to India for the upcoming final clash.

Asia Cup 2025 Final: Tensions at Peak

As Pakistan fights for survival against Bangladesh, the long-standing India-Pakistan cricket rivalry continues to dominate headlines. With India qualifying for the final, Afridi’s challenge to Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav adds fuel to an already high-voltage showdown, promising intense on-field action and off-field drama in the Asia Cup 2025 final.