The aftermath of the India-Pakistan match in the Asia Cup 2025 continues to unfold, with a new element emerging regarding the handshaking incident. A PCB official has been removed following the situation. The internal inquiry showed that the official neglected to brief Pakistan’s captain, Salman Ali Agha, regarding key information about the match and related protocols. The lack of communication is considered a major contributor to the unfolding controversy. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi subsequently ordered the suspension of Usman Wahla, the Director of Cricket Operations.
The Group A match between India and Pakistan occurred on September 14th in Dubai, with India winning the match by seven wickets. The Indian team’s decision to not shake hands with the Pakistani cricketers after the match sparked significant debate. Reports indicate that the Director of Cricket Operations, Usman Wahla, was responsible for the no-handshake issue. He failed to inform Pakistan’s captain, Salman Ali Agha, about pertinent tournament regulations.
It is believed that Usman Wahla should have provided Salman Agha with crucial information regarding the handshaking protocol before the match began. An official within the PCB stated, “When the two captains didn’t shake hands, Wahla should have issued a statement at the time of the toss.”
This situation led to Mohsin Naqvi ordering the suspension of Usman Wahla. Pakistan is preparing to play its final league match on September 17.
Pakistan’s final league match is scheduled for September 17 against the United Arab Emirates (UAE). There is a possibility that Richie Richardson will replace Andy Pycroft as match referee, though this is not confirmed. Pakistan must win its final league match in order to secure a spot in the Super-4 round of the tournament. India has already qualified for the Super-4, having won its prior two matches with considerable margins.
