Daijiworld Media Network – Dubai

Dubai, Sep 16: Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar lashed out at skipper Salman Ali Agha after Pakistan’s crushing defeat to India in the Asia Cup 2025 clash here on Sunday.

Opting to bat on a spinner-friendly Dubai International Stadium pitch, Pakistan collapsed to 127/9 in 20 overs, with Sahibzada Farhan top-scoring at 40. India chased down the target in just 15.5 overs, losing only three wickets— all claimed by spinner Saim Ayub. Indian spinners Kuldeep Yadav (3 wickets) and Axar Patel (2) dominated the game.

Akhtar mocked Salman’s decision, recalling India’s Suryakumar Yadav had already predicted dew and better batting conditions later. “Par humare Einstein ne kaha humay pehle batting karni hai (But our Einstein said we will bat first),” Akhtar said sarcastically.

The Rawalpindi Express also expressed dismay over Team India skipping the customary post-match handshake. “Don’t make a cricket match political. Shake your hands, show your grace,” he urged, adding that disagreements should be left on the field.