PCB demanded neutral presenter, BCCI refused:Ravi Shastri didn’t interview Salman Agha, Waqar Younis joined toss duties – Watch

The Asia Cup 2025 final between India and Pakistan began under a cloud of controversy, continuing the tension that had been evident throughout the tournament. Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav had already drawn attention for not shaking hands with Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha in the league and Super Four stages, and the discord carried into the title clash. At the toss, another awkward moment unfolded when commentator Ravi Shastri didn’t interact with Salman Agha. Instead, former Pakistan legend Waqar Younis stepped in to conduct the conversation with the Pakistan skipper. The uneasy atmosphere was further highlighted as both teams skipped the traditional pre-match photo session with the Asia Cup trophy. On the cricketing front, India won the toss and chose to bowl first in Dubai. In a key change, Rinku Singh was brought into the playing XI to replace the injured Hardik Pandya, giving India an aggressive batting option in the high-pressure final. Also read: Mithun Manhas becomes new BCCI President: RP Singh, Pragyan Ojha appointed national selectors; Rajeev Shukla to continue as VP Ravi Shastri didn’t chat with Salman Agha The Asia Cup 2025 final between India and Pakistan began with yet another controversy before a ball was bowled. At the toss, Indian commentator Ravi Shastri refused to interact with Pakistan captain Salman Agha, forcing former Pakistan legend Waqar Younis to step in and handle the conversation instead. However, Team India won the toss and elected to bowl first. As per the reports of PTI, Ravi Shastri and Waqar Younis handled the toss interviews with the India and Pakistan captains separately after the PCB requested the Asian Cricket Council to appoint a neutral presenter for the title clash. Also read: India vs Pakistan- From nationwide boycott to screenings in cinemas: Dubai stadium entirely sold out Suryakumar refused to attend the pre-match photo session Ahead of the Asia Cup 2025 final in Dubai, another controversy unfolded as Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav declined to join Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha for the traditional pre-match photo session with the trophy. The incident highlighted the continued tension between the two sides in this edition of the tournament. Interestingly, earlier in the league stage, it was Salman Ali Agha who had skipped the post-match press conference after facing defeat. With both captains now making bold statements through their actions, the rivalry has extended beyond the field, adding more drama to the high-profile clash.