As Pakistan booked their place in the Asia Cup final, a short video went viral that left many Indian fans shaking their heads. In the clip, a Pakistani supporter shakes hands with Haris Rauf and tells him, “India ko chhodna nahi h” – a phrase dripping with provocation and disrespect. The moment has added fuel to the fiery build-up for Sunday’s final in Dubai.Click here to watch the video. Pakistan’s journey to the final was hardly convincing. Their batters struggled against Bangladesh, managing just 135 in 20 overs on a tricky pitch. But the bowlers, led by Shaheen Shah Afridi and Rauf, staged a fightback to defend the modest total by 11 runs. Their victory set up a third clash with India in the tournament – one that promises high tension both on and off the field. The final is already steeped in controversy. In the two previous India-Pakistan encounters, there were no post-match handshakes, while Rauf’s “6-0” and fighter-jet gestures against Indian fans drew global criticism. Sahibzada Farhan even mimicked firing a gun with his bat, turning cricket into a theatre of political provocation.Now, Pakistani fans are echoing the same hostile attitude. For Indian supporters, it’s hard not to feel anger at this constant disrespect. Yet, as captain Salman Ali Agha claims, his team is “good enough to beat anyone”. That may be, but on Sunday, it is India’s skill, discipline, and composure that will speak louder than any gestures or slogans. The stage is set for a clash of cricket and pride. India must not just win the trophy, but also show that such theatrics and provocation will never overshadow the sport.
