Pakistan Bounces Back Strong in Lahore Pakistan vs South Africa T20: Faheem Ashraf, Salman Mirza, and Saim Ayub Lead Pakistan to Dominant Win After losing the series opener, the Pakistan National Cricket Team responded in style during the PAK vs SA T20 match in Lahore. With a brilliant all-round performance from Faheem Ashraf , Salman Mirza , and Saim Ayub , Pakistan defeated the South Africa National Cricket Team by nine wickets to level the series 1-1. South Africa were bundled out for just 110 runs in 19.2 overs, and Pakistan chased down the target effortlessly in just 13.1 overs. Mirza’s Magic in the PowerPlay Young fast bowler Salman Mirza delivered a dream spell for Pakistan. He struck early, dismissing Reeza Hendricks with a perfect delivery on just the second ball of the innings. Soon after, he removed Tony de Zorzi and Matthew Breetzke , finishing with incredible figures of 3 for 14 . Meanwhile, Naseem Shah also contributed by sendin...
Dubai, September 15, 2025 – The latest chapter of the India vs Pakistan rivalry at the Asia Cup 2025 wasn’t just about runs and wickets. India’s skipper Suryakumar Yadav made headlines not only for his unbeaten 47-run match-winning knock, but also for his defiant stance that left Pakistan visibly shaken.
From a pre-match handshake snub to a dedication of victory to the Indian armed forces, Suryakumar’s leadership went far beyond cricketing strategy. It was a statement performance – both with the bat and with his actions – in one of the most politically charged India-Pakistan matches in recent years.
The Handshake That Never Happened
Traditionally, cricket captains shake hands before the toss as a mark of sportsmanship. But on Sunday in Dubai, Suryakumar Yadav deliberately skipped the gesture with Pakistan’s skipper Salman Agha.
Instead, he walked directly to his duties, signaling a no-nonsense attitude in light of the tense atmosphere following the Pahalgam terror attack. The message was clear: this game was bigger than pleasantries.
The drama didn’t end there. After guiding India to a 7-wicket win with a towering six, Suryakumar once again ignored Pakistan’s extended hands at the boundary rope, choosing to head back to the dressing room with teammate Shivam Dube.
Suryakumar’s Statement After the Match
In the post-match press conference, the India captain clarified his stance:
“Few things in life are ahead of sportsman spirit. We dedicate this win to the brave soldiers and the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack. This was our way of showing respect.”
This was more than a cricketing remark – it was a political message delivered on the biggest sporting stage.
Even head coach Gautam Gambhir backed his skipper, adding that the entire team stood united in dedicating the win to the armed forces.
Pakistan’s Response
Pakistan, however, did not take the snub lightly. Their captain Salman Agha skipped the post-match presentation ceremony, leaving head coach Mike Hesson to address the media.
Hesson expressed disappointment, saying:
“We were ready to shake hands, but the opposition walked away. It was a disappointing way to end the game.”
The fallout underlined just how deeply the incident stung Pakistan, already bruised by a heavy defeat on the field.
India’s Commanding Performance
While the political drama grabbed headlines, India’s cricketing display was equally ruthless:
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Kuldeep Yadav (3/18) and Axar Patel (2/18) spun a web around Pakistan’s middle order.
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Pakistan stumbled to 127/9 in 20 overs, with only Sahibzada Farhan (40) and Shaheen Afridi (33)* putting up resistance.
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In response, India chased down the target in just 15.5 overs, with Suryakumar Yadav (47 off 32)* leading from the front.
The result extended India’s dominance in T20Is over Pakistan to 11-3, reaffirming their supremacy in the shortest format.
What Lies Ahead
The rivalry is far from over. With both teams likely to meet again in the Super 4 stage on September 21 in Dubai, the anticipation has already skyrocketed.
Will Pakistan respond on the field, or will Suryakumar’s bold stance continue to set the tone? One thing is certain – future India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 encounters will be watched not just for cricket, but for the drama and emotions surrounding them.
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