In the aftermath of India’s dramatic 5-wicket victory over Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 final, Pakistan’s captain Salman Ali Agha launched a scathing critique of India skipper Suryakumar Yadav and his conduct during the tournament. Agha claimed that while Surya had shaken hands with him in private at a pre-tournament press conference and a referee meeting, he deliberately avoided public courtesies when cameras were rolling.

“This is not about disrespecting us - it’s disrespect to cricket itself,” Agha asserted during the post-match press conference, adding: “A good team doesn’t behave this way,” though he “doesn’t want to use very harsh words.” 

His remarks follow mounting tensions in the tournament, where India repeatedly declined handshakes after matches and even refused to accept the trophy from ACC chairman Mohsin Naqvi. 

While Surya and his team framed their actions as symbolic and consistent with board or national directives, Agha’s public objections have fanned further debate over sportsmanship, public image and the true spirit of the game.