DUBAI: The Indian team management has directed its players to avoid contact with Pakistani net bowlers during training sessions at the ICC Academy, sources disclosed on Tuesday.
The instruction comes in the aftermath of the handshake row during the high-profile Pakistan-India encounter in the Asia Cup 2025.The match, already under immense tension, saw unusual moments right from the start, as both captains skipped the traditional handshake at the toss. Later, after Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav hit the winning runs, he celebrated briefly with teammate Shivam Dube before heading straight to the dressing room.
While the Indian squad congratulated one another near the dugout, they deliberately refrained from acknowledging their Pakistani rivals. On the other side, Pakistan’s players had formed a line for the customary handshake, only to see the Indian side retreat indoors and close the dressing room doors.
Interestingly, earlier at the trophy unveiling ceremony, Yadav was seen shaking hands with Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi, which contrasted with his stance during the match.In light of the recent disputes, the Indian camp has reportedly barred its players from any form of interaction with Pakistani net bowlers. Normally, the ICC Academy provides net bowlers from Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and India to assist teams during practice sessions. This time, however, the Indian management has strictly prohibited such exchanges.
According to insiders, players have been clearly told to avoid small talk or photographs with Pakistani net bowlers. To further enforce the guideline, the net bowlers are also required to hand over their mobile phones before practice begins, with devices returned once the session concludes.
