The India-Pakistan match in the Asia Cup Group A has ignited significant debate. Social media platforms have been flooded with criticism from Indian cricket fans, expressing discontent over the match’s scheduling amidst the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor. Calls for a boycott have gained momentum due to the escalating political tensions between the two nations. This match marks the first cricket encounter between the teams since the conflict earlier in the year, intensifying the already existing passions.
A notable incident occurred during the coin toss. India’s captain, Suryakumar Yadav, refrained from the customary handshake with Pakistan’s captain, Salman Ali Agha. After the captains were introduced by Ravi Shastri, Suryakumar did not extend his hand, and Agha reciprocated by showing no gesture of greeting, simply handing over the team sheet to the umpire before returning to the dressing room. The exchange lacked any handshakes or eye contact.
Ahead of the game, Indian assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate had acknowledged the public’s sentiments, stating the team’s solidarity with the emotional climate back home. Suryakumar’s actions appeared to reflect these sentiments on the field.