Tensions surrounding the Asia Cup 2025 clash between India and Pakistan continue to escalate, with a report suggesting Pakistan may use a Super Four victory as a "political message" in response to a perceived "no-handshake" snub from India. The controversy stems from the earlier encounter in the tournament where the Indian team, led by Suryakumar Yadav, declined the customary post-match handshake with their Pakistani counterparts.

Following India's victory, the team went straight to their dressing room, leaving the Pakistani players stunned. Suryakumar Yadav confirmed that the team's decision was a deliberate one, stating that "some things are beyond sportsmanship". Reports indicate that match officials had granted India permission to skip the post-match handshakes but did not inform Pakistan, leading to an awkward situation.

This perceived snub has sparked outrage in Pakistan, with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) lodging a protest with the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). Pakistan's manager, Naveed Akram Cheema, reportedly protested the Indian team's actions to the match referee, who allegedly apologized after the protest. Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha also refrained from speaking at the post-match captain's chat with the host broadcaster as a sign of protest. Additionally, reports emerged that Pakistan demanded the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft to the ICC and even threatened to pull out of the Asia Cup. However, Pakistan eventually backed down from their boycott threats.

The "no-handshake" incident is viewed against the backdrop of ongoing political tensions between the two nations. Some reports suggest that India's actions were a message of solidarity with the victims of recent terror attacks and a tribute to the armed forces. According to Zee News, by shutting their dressing room doors, India signaled that the contest was more than just runs and wickets, but a reminder of wounds from recent events.

Now, with the Super Four stage underway, tensions remain high. According to a report in Hindustan Times, Pakistan may be motivated to exact revenge for the "no-handshake" incident. The report suggests that a victory against India in the Super Four would be seen as sending a strong "political message." It remains to be seen how these off-field tensions will translate onto the field, but it's clear that the India-Pakistan rivalry extends beyond the realm of sports.