The Asia Cup 2025 match between India and Pakistan in Dubai began with a noticeable absence of the customary handshake between the two captains, Suryakumar Yadav of India and Salman Ali Agha of Pakistan. This break from tradition occurred at the toss, sparking discussions about sportsmanship and the intense rivalry between the two nations.

Suryakumar Yadav refrained from extending his hand for the usual pre-match handshake, and Salman Ali Agha reciprocated by not initiating the gesture either. Instead, Agha simply handed the team sheet to the umpire before returning to the dressing room. Ravi Shastri, former India coach, conducted the toss. Pakistan won the toss and chose to bat first. Suryakumar Yadav said that he also wanted to bowl first.

According to sources, Suryakumar Yadav had made up his mind earlier in the day and informed the team management of his decision to not participate in the handshake. He conveyed to the team that it was everyone's individual choice whether to shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts.

The decision is reportedly linked to heightened emotions and respect for public sentiment following recent events. Recent tensions at the border and a terror attack in Pahalgam resulting in 26 deaths, followed by retaliatory strikes by India, have created a tense atmosphere. While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the government consented to the match in Dubai, the players are aware of the public sentiment back home.

The absence of a handshake quickly became a talking point on the internet, with many users sharing their reactions on social media. Some viewed it as a sign of the intense rivalry between the two nations, while others interpreted it as a reflection of the current geopolitical climate.

Despite the handshake snub, the match proceeded with both teams displaying professionalism on the field. The incident, however, added another layer of intrigue to the high-stakes encounter.