Beyond the Hype: Salman Agha Unpacks the Realities of India-Pakistan Cricket Rivalry and Sportsmanship

As the cricket world eagerly anticipates the potential showdown in the Asia Cup 2025 final on September 28th, Pakistani cricketer Salman Agha has offered a remarkably candid and refreshing perspective on one of sports' most electrifying rivalries: India versus Pakistan.

Speaking out about the perceived animosity that often surrounds these high-octane clashes, Agha emphatically debunked the myth of a lack of sportsmanship among players.

"I have never seen any team not shaking hands, nor have I ever seen any player refusing to shake hands after a match," he stated, cutting through years of speculation and media narratives that sometimes suggest a deeper, personal rivalry off the field.

Agha's insights delve into the "baggage" that he believes weighs heavily on every India-Pakistan encounter.

This "baggage," he explained, isn't from the players themselves, but rather from the immense pressure and emotional investment of fans, media, and even political undertones. He highlighted that while the players understand it's a game, the outside world often elevates it to something far greater, infused with deep-seated emotions, particularly across Asia.

"It’s more than a game.

It's emotions. Especially in Asia, it's considered more than a match," Agha remarked, acknowledging the unparalleled passion these contests ignite. However, he quickly clarified that despite the roaring crowds and the national pride at stake, the fundamental respect between the athletes remains intact.

"We know it's a game, and we play it as a game. And we have respect for each other, and all players have respect for each other."

Agha's experience playing against India has clearly shaped his pragmatic view. He understands the commercial and emotional juggernaut that an India-Pakistan match represents, often overshadowing other fixtures.

Yet, his message is clear: beneath the surface-level intensity and the fervent desire to win, there’s a professional understanding and mutual respect that governs the players’ interactions.

His comments serve as a timely reminder that while rivalries fuel the excitement of sport, the core values of sportsmanship and camaraderie endure, even in the most hotly contested battles on the cricket field.