There was palpable anticipation on social media about whether India and Bangladesh players would skip the customary post-match handshakes after their Asia Cup Super Four clash in Dubai on Wednesday. However, a photo taken by TimesofIndia.com reporter Pratyush Raj from the ground quickly confirmed there was no breach of sporting spirit as players from both sides lined up and shook hands after India’s 41-run win, putting the chatter to rest.The confusion came in the backdrop of earlier incidents when India captain Suryakumar Yadav twice avoided shaking hands with Pakistan’s Salman Agha, first in the group stage and again in the Super Four clash. On both occasions, Surya instead greeted match officials, prompting debate around whether India would extend the gesture to other opposition teams.But in Dubai, Surya and Bangladesh’s stand-in skipper Jaker Ali exchanged handshakes at the toss, and later, both teams followed protocol at full-time. The images of mutual respect offered a timely reminder that, despite fierce competition, India and Bangladesh maintain healthy sporting relations.
India vs Bangladesh (Photo by TimesofIndia.com)
On the field, India’s march into the Asia Cup final was powered by a blazing 75 off 37 from Abhishek Sharma, who struck six fours and five sixes in a knock full of timing and power. His onslaught, along with cameos from Hardik Pandya (38) and Shubman Gill (29), pushed India to 168/6 despite a mid-innings stutter.Bangladesh’s chase never gained momentum beyond Saif Hassan’s valiant 69. Kuldeep Yadav (3/18) and Varun Chakaravarthy (2/29) spun a web, while Jasprit Bumrah (2/18) nailed his yorkers. The Tigers eventually folded for 127 in 19.3 overs.India’s convincing win means they are the first side to book a spot in the final. Thursday’s Bangladesh–Pakistan clash will decide their opponent, with the prospect of a third India–Pakistan showdown looming large.For now, though, the post-match handshake proves there’s no controversy between India and Bangladesh, just competitive cricket.
