Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha skips post-match ceremony; coach explains why

Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha did not attend the post‑match presentation after the Asia Cup game against India. This came after India chose not to shake hands with Pakistan players at the end of the match.

What happened after the match

India won by 7 wickets and went straight to their dressing room. There were no handshakes with Pakistan. Pakistan players then went near India’s dressing room, but the door was reportedly closed by staff. Soon after, Salman did not come for the presentation on the ground.

What the coach said

Pakistan coach Mike Hesson said the team was ready to shake hands and felt disappointed when India did not do it. He said the way the match ended was not nice and that it was a “flow‑on effect” that Salman missed the presentation.

India’s side

India captain Suryakumar Yadav said the decision to avoid handshakes was a tribute to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and a show of support to the armed forces. He said some things in life are above sports.

Why this matters

• Skipping the presentation is unusual for a captain.

• The moment adds to the “no handshake” controversy.

• The tournament officials may look at both sides’ statements and decide if any action is needed.

• The teams could meet again later in the event, so the mood between camps is important.