Super-4, IND vs PAK: No Handshake Part-2, tensions are going to be high, Will Surya finally extend his hand to Salman Agha this time?

The echo of 'No-Handshake War' between India and Pakistan had not yet subsided and now both the teams are going to face each other once again.

The two arch-rivals will clash in the Super Four match of the Asia Cup 2025 on Sunday. The match will take place in Dubai and will begin at 8 p.m. Pakistan defeated the UAE (United Arab Emirates) by 41 runs in the Group A match to qualify for the super-four phase.

Must Read - Asia Cup Super-4: What are India's match dates and opponents in the Super-4 of the Asia Cup? Check out the complete schedule

While the previous match (September 14) sparked controversy over players not shaking hands, all eyes will now be on whether "No Handshake Part 2" will be seen, or will the atmosphere remain normal? That is, will the stance Indian captain Surya displayed towards Pakistani captain Salman Agha at the toss still be seen? Will Surya shake hands with Salman Agha, or will the players of both countries shake hands when the match concludes on September 21?

Pakistan demanded referee Andy Pycroft's removal from the Asia Cup after the match on September 14th, as the PCB (Pakistan Cricket Board) believed he was responsible for the incident. Pakistan then staged a major drama before the match on September 17th where they chose to boycott the match versus the UAE, but ultimately decided to play the match.  

India then prepared for a high-voltage clash

India performed brilliantly in the group stage and secured a place in the Super Four, while Pakistan, despite some ups and downs, remained in the title race. Now, cricket fans in both countries are extremely excited about this match in Dubai.

From politics to sports

Discussions have been rife about the attitude of the players on both teams since the last Asia Cup match. "No handshakes" has already trended on social media. Consequently, this Super Four match will not only be a game of runs and wickets, but could also prove to be a test of tension and bitterness.

Now the question is, is a handshake necessary?

Is it mandatory to shake hands? What do the ICC rules say? So, we tried to dig up some rules. The International Cricket Council (ICC) rules do not state that a handshake is mandatory. Umpires and players shake hands before and after matches solely out of a sense of sportsmanship. This tradition is also seen in other sports besides cricket.

According to Article 2.1.8 of the ICC Code of Conduct, such conduct is considered to be against the spirit of the game and brings disrepute to the game. It is listed as Level 1 and Level 2 offenses. Level 1 offenses can result in a warning or a fine of up to $2,000. Level 2 offenses can result in a fine of 100% of the match fee and demerit points. Accumulating four or more demerit points within a 24-month period can result in a player being banned for a certain number of matches. 

Do Read - The Indian National Cricket Team is set to compete against Pakistan once more in the Asia Cup 2025, with the spectacular match happening on this date.