"Play Cricket, Not Politics!" Kapil Dev Rips Into Pakistan Over Handshake Drama

Kapil Dev, the former Indian captain, was disappointed with Pakistan's handling of the handshake dispute and accused them of spreading false information and escalating a small matter into a major controversy. He advised them to stop making needless drama and concentrate on their cricket.

The Indian team’s decision to skip the handshake with Pakistan during their Asia Cup clash quickly snowballed into controversy.. Following the match, Pakistan captain Salman Agha stormed off, refusing to attend the post-match presentation.. The PCB then blamed match referee Andy Pycroft, alleging he instructed both captains not to shake hands at the toss.

Also Read: Asia Cup 2025: Pakistan joins India in Super 4s; IND vs PAK clash yet again in Dubai

Taking it a step further, the PCB fired off two strongly-worded emails to the ICC, demanding Pycroft’s removal and even hinting at a possible withdrawal from the tournament. However, in a firm and clear response, the ICC rejected Pakistan’s request on both occasions, backing the referee and effectively shutting down the complaint.

Also Read: Asia Cup 2025: 'Don't fault the Indian cricketers, they were given orders from above - Shahid Afridi on handshake saga

Commenting on the incident, Kapil Dev called for calm and maturity.

"These are all small things. One should focus on playing cricket. If someone does not want to shake hands, there is no need to make a big issue out of it on either side. It is not right to make misleading statements, but some cricketers give statements that become controversial… Pakistan did not play good cricket; they need to work on it. It’s a personal choice whether to shake hands or hug," he said.

Meanwhile, India became the first team to qualify for the Super 4s with one match in hand. With their dominant performances so far, many experts are tipping the Suryakumar Yadav-led side to go all the way — a sentiment echoed by Kapil Dev

"The Indian team has been playing very well for the past 20 years. The team performs exceptionally well in ICC tournaments. Our cricket is very organised… I am hopeful that Team India will win the Asia Cup 2025," he said.

Also Read: 'Take it up with Asia Cup organiser. We have no role': What ICC bluntly told PCB in handshake saga