Suresh Raina claims 'no Indian player wanted to play vs Pakistan; forced because BCCI…'

Former Indian cricketer claims 'no Indian player wanted to play vs Pakistan; forced because BCCI…' (Photo- BCCI and X)

The atmosphere among and around the Indian squad is still tense after their decisive seven-wicket victory over Pakistan in Sunday's Asia Cup 2025 Group A match. Although this was a much-needed victory that virtually guaranteed the Men in Blue a spot in the Super Fours, the match's setting detracted from what could have been just another India vs Pakistan encounter.

The only difference is that this match was different from others. The Indian government's approval caused a flurry of public outrage, with players under pressure to play Pakistan in a tournament in defiance of calls for boycotts.

Although the Indian team and captain Suryakumar Yadav have been praised for their solidarity by refusing to shake hands with the Pakistani team after the game, it was clear from their faces and body language that the victory meant little and, even if it did, was overshadowed by the bigger picture.

Also Read | How India decided on no-handshake policy right before Pakistan encounter at Asia Cup

Former India cricketer Suresh Raina fueled the controversy by asserting that no Indian player desired to play against Pakistan or even to compete in the Asia Cup and that they were merely following orders from the top.

"I know one thing for sure. If you personally ask the players, none of them wants to play the Asia Cup. In a way, they are forced because the BCCI has agreed to it. I am sad that India are playing against Pakistan, but I can also say for a fact that if Suryakumar Yadav and his players are asked about their personal opinions about playing against Pakistan, they would have said no. None of them wanted to play," Raina was quoted as saying by Sports Tak.

There have been repercussions from the choice to not shake hands. Shoaib Akhtar was "disheartened" by the gesture, and the Pakistan Cricket Board has formally filed a protest. After SKY and the team ignored a procedure that has been practiced for decades and is a good example of "The Gentleman's Game", Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha did not show up for the post-match presentation ceremony.