The India–Pakistan rivalry has once again spilled beyond the boundary ropes. Pakistan pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi has publicly criticised India for what he called a breach of sportsmanship during their encounters at the Asia Cup 2025, where post-match handshakes were notably absent and tempers frequently flared.

Speaking to reporters in Lahore, Afridi said that the behaviour witnessed during the tournament sent out “poor optics” to fans across the world. “People across the border have violated the spirit of sportsmanship,” Shaheen remarked, while adding that Pakistan would focus on responding “on the field” rather than through words — a statement widely interpreted as a warning ahead of the India–Pakistan fixture at the T20 World Cup 2026 in Colombo on February 15.

The Asia Cup last year was marred by repeated controversies. India and Pakistan players did not shake hands throughout the tournament, a move that began with India captain Suryakumar Yadav and was followed by the rest of the squad. On-field exchanges grew increasingly hostile, with verbal spats and animated celebrations adding fuel to an already charged atmosphere.

Several Pakistani players also landed in trouble during the tournament. Gestures such as Haris Rauf’s “jet crashing” celebration and Sahibzada Farhan’s rifle-mimicking action were deemed provocative and resulted in sanctions under the ICC Code of Conduct. These incidents further highlighted how the rivalry had drifted away from healthy competition toward open confrontation.

The controversy peaked after India defeated Pakistan in the Asia Cup final. Team India refused to accept the trophy from Mohsin Naqvi, who is both the Asian Cricket Council president and Pakistan Cricket Board chairman. With Naqvi insisting on presenting the trophy himself, the ceremony reportedly descended into confusion, and India celebrated without formally receiving the silverware.

Former West Indies captain Jason Holder recently weighed in on the issue, calling the off-field drama “ugly” and urging both nations to ease tensions through cricket rather than deepen divides.

India and Pakistan have not played bilateral cricket since 2012–13, and even meetings at multi-nation tournaments continue to be clouded by political and emotional baggage. With the T20 World Cup 2026 approaching, Shaheen Afridi’s remarks ensure that the rivalry remains as combustible as ever — long before the first ball is bowled.