The highly anticipated Asia Cup Group A clash between India and Pakistan has stirred major controversy, unfolding against the backdrop of strained political tensions and public outrage in India. With emotions running high following the recent Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor, many Indian fans have voiced their anger online, questioning the decision to go ahead with the match. Hashtags calling for a boycott of the game have been trending, as this marks the first cricket encounter between the two nations since hostilities escalated earlier this year.

The tension was visible right from the toss. In a notable moment, India captain Suryakumar Yadav declined the customary handshake with Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha. When former cricketer Ravi Shastri introduced the two captains at the toss, Suryakumar chose not to shake hands, a gesture that didn’t go unnoticed. Agha, for his part, also refrained from extending his hand and quietly handed over the team sheet to the umpire before walking away without any eye contact with his Indian counterpart.

According to reports by The Indian Express, Suryakumar had made the decision earlier in the day and informed his teammates of his intent. However, he clarified that it was a personal choice, and each player could decide for themselves whether to engage with the opposition in traditional gestures of sportsmanship.

This move follows earlier controversy involving Pakistan all-rounder Faheem Ashraf, who had allegedly mocked India’s Operation Sindoor in a public comment. Ashraf is now part of the Pakistan squad facing India, further fuelling public resentment.

Indian assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate acknowledged the emotional state of the nation and said the players understood the sentiments of the fans. He added that the team, under head coach Gautam Gambhir, had been told to remain focused on the game and not be distracted by the noise around it.

Earlier this week, a similar incident occurred during the pre-tournament press conference when Agha initially appeared to snub a handshake with Suryakumar. Although he later returned to shake hands, fans criticised Suryakumar for engaging with him and with ACC President Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board.

As the game continues, all eyes remain on whether tensions will spill onto the field.