India has walked into the Asia Cup 2025 final with an unbeaten streak and will now face its arch-rivals Pakistan. The match is scheduled to be held on September 28 at Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Led by Suryakumar Yadav, the Men in Blue will face their toughest opponents, Pakistan, in what will be a blockbuster encounter. Having already won twice in the tournament, India are clearly dominant while Pakistan struggles to perform well.
The first flashpoint – No Handshakes
The drama started after the September 14 group-stage match, where Indian players declined to shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts at the end of the match. The act clearly agitated the Salman Agha-led side, and the skipper decided to avoid the post-match presentation. Instead, coach Mike Hesson took on the task of media responsibilities. Matters were taken to the next level when Pakistan insisted that match referee Andy Pycroft be taken off duty from their subsequent game against the UAE, which was firmly rejected by the ICC.
Tensions in second clash
The second encounter between the two teams, played on September 21, witnessed India firmly asserting their superiority once again with an easy six-wicket win. Nevertheless, the non-handshakes after the match reared its ugly head once again, and controversy created more waves than before. On-field heated exchanges were also involved this time around. India complained against Sahibzada Farhan for his taunting half-century finish and against Haris Rauf for unsporting gestures on the field.
ICC disciplinary actions
Following the incidents, match authorities fined Haris Rauf 30% of his match fee for violating the ICC Code of Conduct, and Farhan received a warning. India captain Suryakumar Yadav was also fined 30% of his match fee for comments on September 14, when he expressed sympathy with victims of the Pahalgam attack.
Also Read: India vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2025 Final: When and where to watch IND vs PAK match live?
No captains photoshoot ahead of final
The off-field drama was not over yet on September 27, a day ahead of the final, as India refused to take part in the official photoshoot with Pakistan. The denial has poured new fuel into the rivalry and has prepared the ground for a hot contest in Dubai. With India already having two victories against Pakistan in the tournament, the Men in Blue will try to do it again, whereas Pakistan would be eager to settle old scores both on and off the field.
