By Zainab Shafiq 
The build-up to the Asia Cup 2025 final has been overshadowed by off-field tensions rather than cricketing excitement. What began as handshake controversies between the captains has now cast doubt on whether the traditional Pakistan-India pre-final trophy shoot will take place in Dubai.
The first flashpoint came during the group stage clash when Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav declined the customary handshake with Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha at the toss. Matters worsened after the match, as Suryakumar — fresh from scoring the winning runs — walked straight off the field without greeting his opposition. Pakistan players stood waiting for the usual post-match courtesy, but India’s squad immediately locked themselves in the dressing room.
Team manager Naveed Akram Cheema quickly filed a protest, blaming both the Indian team and match referee Andy Pycroft. According to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Pycroft later apologised, describing the incident as a “miscommunication.”
Trophy Shoot Uncertainty Before the Final
These tensions resurfaced in the Super Four encounter on September 21, when both sides again avoided handshakes before and after the match. Pycroft once more apologised privately to Salman Ali Agha, but the damage to the spirit of the contest was evident.
Now, on the eve of the title clash at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, organisers have confirmed that there will be no scheduled Pakistan-India pre-final trophy shoot. They added that a decision on whether both captains will pose together with the trophy can only be taken on match day.
Meanwhile, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha will face the media at 7:00 PM (PST) tonight, while his team is set for their final training session at the ICC Academy in Dubai from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM (PST).
Final Build-Up Overshadowed
Instead of the usual celebratory build-up, the narrative heading into Sunday’s blockbuster final has revolved around diplomatic apologies and tense standoffs. The absence of the customary Pakistan-India pre-final trophy shoot is just the latest reminder of how off-field disputes are shaping the rivalry as much as on-field performances.
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