Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has denied false quotes circulating on social media about the India-Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 match in Dubai.
A fake statement claimed Ponting had criticized India for not shaking hands with Pakistan after the game. The viral post read:
“This match will be remembered forever. Pakistan are true champions for offering handshakes despite losing, while India remain sore losers.”
Ponting clarified on X:
“I did not make those statements. In fact, I haven’t made any public comment about the Asia Cup at all.”
What happened in the match
India bowled Pakistan out for 127-9 and chased the target in just 16 overs with seven wickets in hand. Suryakumar Yadav finished the game with a six, hugged teammate Shivam Dube, and both went straight to the dressing room.
However, Indian players avoided shaking hands with Pakistan. Pakistani players waited, but India shut their dressing room door instead. Even at the toss, both captains skipped the handshake.
Pakistan’s reaction
Pakistan coach Mike Hesson expressed disappointment:
“We were ready to shake hands, but India walked off. It was a poor way to end the game.”
Captain Salman Ali Agha also missed the post-match presentation, which Hesson said was linked to the controversy.
PCB’s complaint
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) lodged a complaint with the ICC and MCC, demanding the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft.
In its letter, PCB said:
“No handshakes before or after the match is against the spirit and traditions of cricket. The referee failed to uphold his responsibilities.”
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi also posted on X:
“We have demanded the immediate removal of Andy Pycroft from the Asia Cup for violating the ICC Code of Conduct and MCC laws.”
The PCB further alleged that the no-handshake instructions came not just from the Indian board, but directly from the Indian government, adding to the controversy.
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