No-Handshake Part 2: The echoes of the 'No-Handshake War' between India and Pakistan had barely faded when yet again, both teams are set to face off.
In the Super-4 clash of Asia Cup 2025 this Sunday, the two arch-rival teams will meet in Dubai. The match is scheduled to begin at 8 PM. Pakistan triumphed over the United Arab Emirates (UAE) by 41 runs in Group A.
The incident in the previous match (September 14), where players refrained from handshakes, fueled the controversy further. Now, all eyes are on whether a sequel to the "No-Handshake Part 2" will unfold, or will the atmosphere remain amicable? Will Indian captain Surya maintain his stand shown during the toss with Pakistani captain Salman Agha, or will the animosity dissipate with a handshake at the end of the September 21 game?
Following the September 14 contest, Pakistan called for the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft from the Asia Cup, believing these incidents stemmed from his oversight. Despite the drama preceding the game on September 17, Pakistan eventually decided to proceed with the match.
Gear Up for Another High-Voltage Showdown
India showcased a stellar performance in the group stage, earning a spot in Super-4, while Pakistan continues with fluctuating fortunes. Excitement is palpable among cricket fans from both nations for this upcoming clash in Dubai.
From Politics to Performance, Discussions Heat Up
Since the last match, talks about the demeanor of both teams' players have amplified. The 'No Handshake' trend took social media by storm. Therefore, this Super-4 face-off transcends a mere game of runs and wickets; it's a test of handling tension and tempers.
The Query: Is a Handshake Essential?
Is a handshake obligatory, and what does the ICC's rulebook say? Delving into the protocols reveals that nowhere in the International Cricket Council (ICC) regulations mandates handshaking. Umpires and players typically observe it in the spirit of the game, a tradition seen beyond cricket in other sports as well.
According to Article 2.1.8 of the ICC Code of Conduct, such conduct can be considered against the spirit of the game and detrimental to its reputation. Level-1 offenses can result in a warning or fines up to $2,000. A Level-2 offense could lead to a 100% match fee fine, alongside demerit points. An accumulation of four or more demerit points within 24 months can lead to suspensions for players.
