The countdown to the Asia Cup 2025 final between India and Pakistan has taken an unusual turn as organisers confirmed that the customary pre-final trophy shoot featuring both captains will not take place. Traditionally, the captains pose with the trophy a day before the big game, but on this occasion, officials stated that a joint photograph may only happen on Sunday before the toss, depending on final approval. The much-awaited title clash is scheduled for September 28 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, marking the first-ever Asia Cup final between the two arch-rivals.

India’s preparations for the Asia Cup 2025

In the lead-up to the contest, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav is set to address the media on Saturday evening. The team will also undergo their final training session behind closed doors in Dubai from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm (IST). Pakistan, meanwhile, are expected to conduct an open training session at the ICC Academy, with their focus firmly on beating the defending champions in the final.

Handshake controversy adds to India vs Pakistan rivalry

Tensions have been simmering between the two sides even before the final. During the group-stage clash, Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav refused the customary handshake with Salman Ali Agha at the toss, an act that sparked heated debate among fans and pundits. The situation escalated further when, after hitting the winning runs, Suryakumar walked straight off the field with his batting partner Shivam Dube, avoiding the traditional post-match courtesy of greeting the opposition.

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India vs Pakistan rivalry extends beyond the field

The absence of a trophy shoot and the ongoing handshake controversy underline the off-field drama that has surrounded this edition of the Asia Cup. With political and emotional undercurrents already influencing the tournament, the final is set against a backdrop of unprecedented scrutiny. While fans eagerly anticipate the cricketing showdown, the strained interactions between players add another layer to what is already the sport’s most fierce and closely watched rivalry.

For the first time in the Asia Cup’s 41-year history, India and Pakistan will contest the tournament final, making Sunday’s game a historic moment for cricket in the subcontinent.

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