Credit: ACC
Pakistan pacers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf were seen disrespecting India’s national anthem before the start of the Asia Cup 2025 final against India. During the atmosphere of animosity, both arch-rivals are playing in the Asia Cup final against each other for the first time. Prior to the game, when both teams were lined up for the national anthems, the Pakistan speedsters were seen chatting with each other. Their impertinent act grabbed the attention. In the last two matches between the two sides, India players refused to shake hands with their counterparts. Reigning champions’ skipper Suryakumar Yadav also didn’t greet Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha during the toss in both games.
In the previous two weeks, former Pakistan players have also passed derogatory comments related to India players. Noting the scenario, such incidents were expected to happen. The recent deed from Rauf and Shaheen has only added charcoal to the fire.
Suryakumar Yadav ignored ex-Pakistan captain Waqar Yonunis during the toss
Earlier, at the toss, India skipper Suryakumar Yadav shook hands with the match referee Andy Pycroft and broadcaster Ravi Shahstri but ignored former Pakistan skipper Waqar Younis and current Green Army’s captain Salman Ali Agha. The toss was also conducted in an unusual manner as Shastri interviewed Suryakumar while Waqar chatted with Salman after the result.
Discussing the current developments in the match, Pakistan are 134/8 after 17 overs, with Mohammad Nawaz (1* off 2) and Haris Rauf (0* off 0) at the crease. All eight wickets have been clinched by spinners.
