India continued to dominate Pakistan in the T20Is as they defeated them by seven wickets in the ongoing Asia Cup 2025 clash on Sunday, September 14, in Dubai. In the last 14 T20Is, India have won a whopping 13 T20Is, extending their sheer dominance over Men in Green. However, the Suryakumar Yadav-led side's clinical display did not grab eyeballs; rather, controversy off the field overshadowed the on-field performance.
Skipper Suryakumar finished things off in style by hitting a six and chasing Pakistan's modest 127 in just 15.5 overs. However, unusual scenes occurred, as Surya and his batting partner Shivam Dube did not indulge in the customary handshake after the end of play. Footage showed India's support staff closing the team dressing room door, leaving Salman Ali Agha & Co. stranded. Cricketer-turned-expert Shoaib Akhter expressed disappointment on the post-match show, calling the incident shambolic.
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"I am speechless. It is disheartening to see, and I don't know what to say. Hats off to India. Just don't make things political. Cricket match hain, isko political mat banao... Fights happen, even inside your house. Forget it, move on. It is a game of cricket, shake your hands, show your grace," Akhter said.
Shoaib Akhter defends Salman Ali Agha's gesture
The former pace bowler also backed Pakistani skipper Agha's decision to skip the post-match presentation ceremony.
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"Thik kiya Salman Ali Agha ne, wo nahi gaya post match mein, good," he added.
While the match was a one-sided affair, the handshake controversy & Akhter's powerful words grabbed eyeballs, reminding fans worldwide that an India vs Pakistan fixture carries far greater significance on and off the field.
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