Afridi Slams India’s No-Handshake Move: “They Look Like Shame, Not Pride” – But Pakistan Forced to Play UAE After ICC Says NO
The Asia Cup 2025 drama just hit peak levels.
From no handshakes to last-minute walkout threats, this tournament has become more than cricket.
Now, Shahid Afridi, Pakistan’s explosive former captain, has dropped a bombshell on social media—and it’s shaking the cricket world.
Let’s break down the truth, the tension, and how Pakistan had no choice but to play even after threatening to quit.
Shahid Afridi on India’s disgraceful acts.
“After May 10,the world saw Pakistan’s power & saw India being humiliated.India had become a joke in front of the world. That was something India could not tolerate. BCCI asked Indian players not to shake hands” #AsiaCup2025 #PakvsInd pic.twitter.com/6C583JNRde
— Maham Gillani (@DheetAfridian) September 15, 2025
🔥 Shahid Afridi Speaks Out: “India Players Are in Shame”
Former star Shahid Afridi made strong comments online:
“There is nothing wrong with Indian players refusing to shake hands. They followed orders. But this act brings shame to them in front of the world.”
His full take:
He added:
“Suryakumar Yadav shook hands with Salman Agha and Mohsin Naqvi at the Asia Cup launch. No one protested then. But when fans reacted, the government stepped in. Now, Indian players look bad globally.”
Fans are split:
“Afridi finally said what we felt.”
“Respect him for speaking truth, not politics.”
🚫 The Handshake That Never Happened
After India beat Pakistan by 7 wickets:
- Indian players did not shake hands.
- Suryakumar Yadav said, “Some things matter more than sportsmanship.”
- Dedication was made to soldiers and terror victims.
But now, Afridi says:
“You can show respect without disrespecting others.”
⚖️ ICC Delivers Final Verdict: Andy Pycroft STAYS
Pakistan demanded that match referee Andy Pycroft be removed, blaming him for advising captains not to shake hands at the toss.
But the ICC said NO.
This killed Pakistan’s main argument.
🏟️ Pakistan Forced to Play Walkout Threat Fails
Despite earlier warnings: “If Pycroft stays, we won’t play UAE.”
Pakistan had no choice.
Here’s why:
So, at 9:00 PM IST, under heavy tension, the match began.
📊 Match Details: Pakistan vs UAE – Do or Die
UAE’s early decision to bowl puts pressure on Pakistan’s batting lineup.
🧨 What Went Down Behind the Scenes?
Pakistan didn’t walk out.
They folded under pressure.
And fans aren’t happy.
One fan tweeted:
“We threatened the world… and played anyway. Where’s the pride?”
📈 Super 4 Qualification Scenarios
👉 If Pakistan loses or quits → UAE qualifies, not Pakistan.
Final Thoughts: Pride vs Pressure
Pakistan wanted respect.
They got embarrassed.
India stood firm.
But lost some global goodwill.
And Shahid Afridi?
He reminded everyone:
“Cricket should unite, not divide.”
Now, all eyes are on the pitch.
Can Pakistan save face with a win?
Or will they crash out after all the noise?
Watch Live & Join the Debate
🎥 [Watch: Full highlights of UAE vs Pakistan]
📢 [Relive Afridi’s viral social media post]
💬 Comment below: Was the no-handshake protest worth it?