Mohsin Naqvi and Suryakumar Yadav handshake sparks outrage in India
DUBAI: A handshake between Indian cricket captain Suryakumar Yadav and Asian Cricket Council president Mohsin Naqvi has stirred controversy in India, sparking a wave of criticism on social media and mainstream media platforms.
The incident took place on Tuesday at the Asia Cup 2025 captains’ conference in Dubai, where Suryakumar was seen greeting Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha and Mohsin Naqvi with a handshake and brief pleasantries.
The video clip quickly went viral online, with many Indian users accusing their captain of being “disrespectful” and “insensitive.” Comments such as “They have harmed our people, and he is shaking hands with them” flooded social media platforms.
Indian news outlets also amplified the incident, highlighting that Naqvi, who is serving as Pakistan’s Interior Minister along with his role as ACC president, has previously made strong statements against India. Critics argued that the interaction was inappropriate given the political tensions between the two countries.
Despite the backlash, cricket analysts noted that such gestures are common in international sports events where players and officials are expected to maintain decorum.
India is set to begin its Asia Cup campaign today against the United Arab Emirates, while the much-anticipated clash with Pakistan is scheduled for September 14.
Also read: Pakistan vs India Asia Cup 2025 clash set for September 14
