Saikia Stresses on Celebrating India’s Win
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has finally responded to the post-match handshake controversy that followed India’s emphatic win over Pakistan in the Asia Cup. BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia urged fans and media alike to focus on the team’s dominant performance rather than off-field noise.
“I can only say India won handsomely. It was a thumping victory for the Indian team—nothing more, nothing less,” Saikia told IANS. “We should be enjoying this result instead of giving importance to chatter from third parties or hostile nations. Our boys played brilliantly, and that’s where the spotlight should be.”
Handshake Debate Takes Center Stage
The controversy erupted after India chose to skip the traditional handshake with Pakistan at the end of the game. While Pakistani players waited, the Indian side headed straight back to their dressing room. The gesture caught the attention of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who highlighted the matter.
Responding to queries about the incident, Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav made it clear that the decision was aligned with both the government and the BCCI. “We came here to play cricket, and we’ve given our reply on the field,” he said at the post-match press conference.
India Cruise Into Super Four
On the field, the Men in Blue delivered a commanding performance, defeating Pakistan by seven wickets to register their second win of the tournament. The result secured India’s passage into the Super Four stage, boosting their confidence ahead of tougher fixtures.
Saikia expressed optimism that the team would continue its strong run. “We hope the winning momentum carries on till the final match of this tournament,” he added.
What’s Next for India
India will face Oman in their next Group A clash on September 19 at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi. With momentum firmly on their side, the focus now shifts to maintaining consistency and preparing for the knockout stages.