The former spinner quickly reminded Salman Agha that India has no obligation to engage in gestures they do not wish to.
Amit Mishra Defends India Amid Handshake Row with Pakistan
Former spinner Amit Mishra has strongly criticized Pakistan skipper Salman Agha for targeting Suryakumar Yadav and the Indian team over the handshake controversy in the Asia Cup 2025. The Men in Blue asserted their dominance over Pakistan three times in just two weeks during the tournament, including the final. Throughout, India made it clear they would not shake hands with Pakistan players at the toss or post-match, sparking widespread discussion.
Tensions escalated when the Pakistan Cricket Board claimed match referee Andy Pycroft prevented the customary handshake between Suryakumar Yadav and Salman Agha during the group stage. The PCB even threatened to pull out of the series if Pycroft wasn’t replaced, but the ICC refused to yield.
After the final, Salman Agha again voiced his complaints about India’s refusal to shake hands, calling it “disrespectful.”
“What India has done this tournament is very disappointing. They’re not disrespecting us by not shaking hands; they’re disrespecting cricket. Good teams don’t do what they did today. We went to pose with the trophy on our own because we wanted to fulfil our obligations. We stood there and took our medals. I don’t want to use harsh words, but they’ve been very disrespectful,” Salman Agha said at the post-final press conference.
Mishra quickly countered, emphasizing that India has no obligation to engage in gestures they don’t wish to make.
“Is there any rule that we have to shake hands? We play cricket, we don’t want to be friends with you, we don’t want to shake hands, it’s our wish. Is there any rule in the rule book that we have to shake hands? We played three matches, and we defeated you in all three. After that, what do you want? Do you want us to be friends with you? Why should we? It’s our wish. We won’t do it,” Mishra told ANI.
“I salute the entire Indian team”
Amit Mishra praised Team India for its firm stance and professionalism, commending their commitment to play despite the ongoing tensions with Pakistan. He strongly disapproved of any unfair treatment and lauded the team for maintaining focus on the game.
