The aftermath of the India–Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 Group A clash in Dubai has taken an ugly turn. What began as a controversy over Team India’s refusal to shake hands with Pakistani players has now snowballed into a war of words, with former Pakistan cricketer Mohammad Yousuf drawing sharp criticism for his choice of language.
Suryakumar Yadav, India’s T20I skipper, had explained that the no-handshake decision was made after discussions with the BCCI and the Indian government. However, the move left the Pakistan camp visibly upset.
The issue escalated further when Mohammad Yousuf, a veteran batter with over 17,000 international runs, repeatedly used derogatory language against Yadav during a debate on Pakistani channel Samaa TV. Despite the anchor’s attempts to correct him, Yousuf continued to insult the Indian cricketer, calling him a “pig.” His remarks triggered a wave of anger across social media, with fans and commentators condemning the personal attack.
Adding fuel to the fire, Yousuf also accused India of “living in a filmy world” and claimed that the team relies on “umpires and match referees” to gain an advantage over Pakistan.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially complained to the International Cricket Council (ICC), seeking the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft, alleging he acted against the spirit of cricket during the high-voltage encounter.
However, sources within the ICC suggest that the demand is set to be dismissed. According to an ICC insider quoted by ANI, “The PCB’s request to replace Andy Pycroft will not be entertained. Accepting such a demand could open the door for other boards to make similar claims in future, leading to unnecessary complications. PCB will be informed privately, but there will be no public statement.”
The handshake controversy, which initially seemed like a symbolic protest by the Indian team, has now spiraled into a diplomatic cricketing standoff. With the ICC unlikely to bow to Pakistan’s demand, the focus may soon shift back to the players and the cricketing action—but the fallout from Yousuf’s remarks is expected to linger for some time.
A low level rhetoric from Yousuf Yohana (converted) on a national TV program.
He called India captain Suryakumar Yadav as “Suar” (pig).
Shameless behaviour. And they demand respect, preach morality. pic.twitter.com/yhWhnwaYYq
— Slogger (@kirikraja) September 16, 2025
