India clinched a convincing 6-wicket win over Pakistan in their Super Fours clash at the Asia Cup 2025, chasing down 172 with seven balls to spare at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Tilak Varma sealed the game with a stylish flick for four off Shaheen Afridi, capping off a commanding batting display by India’s young top order.
However, what caught everyone’s attention was not just the clinical finish but the scenes that followed. Just like their opening game of the tournament, Indian players once again skipped the traditional post-match handshake with Pakistan. Tilak Varma and Hardik Pandya walked straight off the field, exchanging celebrations only with their teammates.
The absence of handshakes has now sparked discussions across social media, with fans debating whether it was a deliberate statement or simply a continuation of the team’s earlier stance. The only visible gestures of sportsmanship were shared within the Indian squad itself, as players congratulated one another after sealing the win.
India’s decision to avoid handshakes comes after a high-voltage clash marked by multiple on-field confrontations — from Abhishek Sharma’s fiery start against Shaheen Afridi to Shubman Gill’s verbal exchange with the left-arm pacer and Abhishek’s spat with Haris Rauf.
The result keeps India unbeaten in the tournament, but the post-match gesture — or the lack of it — might be remembered just as much as the victory itself.
