Overview:
He emphasised that cricket is about the game, not friendship, and since India won all three matches against Pakistan, there was no obligation to engage in such gestures.
Pakistan captain Salman Agha has repeatedly criticised India. After the Asia Cup 2025 final, he once more raised the handshake controversy in a press conference. In reply, former India spinner Amit Mishra reaffirmed India’s stance, explaining that the players have no intention of forming friendships with Salman or any member of the Pakistan team.
“What India has done in this tournament is extremely disappointing. They’re not just disrespecting us by refusing to shake hands, they’re disrespecting the game of cricket. We stood there and received our medals. I don’t want to use harsh words, but their behaviour was disrespectful,” Salman said in the press conference after the final.
Amit Mishra questioned the need for handshakes, stating there’s no rule mandating them. He emphasised that cricket is about the game, not friendship, and since India won all three matches against Pakistan, there was no obligation to engage in such gestures.
“Is there any rule that says we must shake hands? We play cricket, we don’t need to be friends, and we don’t have to shake hands if we don’t want to. Is there a rule in the rulebook that requires us to do so? We’ve played three matches and won all three. After that, what more do you want? Do you want us to be friends with you?. It’s our choice, and we won’t do it,” Mishra told ANI.