Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting clarifies viral fake quote linked to India’s handshake snub after Asia Cup match against Pakistan.
What Happened After the India vs Pakistan Asia Cup Match?
After India’s dominant seven-wicket win over Pakistan in the Asia Cup group stage, a new controversy erupted — not about cricket, but about a handshake.
Following the match, Indian players reportedly walked off the field and into the dressing room without shaking hands with the Pakistani team. This triggered a social media storm, with many users slamming India for what they perceived as poor sportsmanship.
Fake Ricky Ponting Quote Goes Viral
Soon after the match, a quote attributed to Ricky Ponting began circulating widely online. The alleged statement, supposedly made during a Sky Sports broadcast, read:
“This match will be remembered forever with India as the big loser. The way the Pakistani team wanted to shake hands at the end has immortalised them as champions of the gentleman’s game with India as the perpetual loser.”
Social media users began attacking Ponting for the comment, assuming it to be genuine.
Ponting Breaks Silence: “I Never Said That”
Setting the record straight, Ricky Ponting took to X (formerly Twitter) and issued a firm denial:
“I am aware of certain comments being attributed to me on social media. Please know that I categorically did not make those statements and indeed have made no public comment about the Asia Cup at all.”
The clarification came after Fox Sports and other credible outlets confirmed the quote was fabricated and not linked to any official broadcast.
Why Didn’t India Shake Hands?
Addressing the issue at a press conference, India captain Suryakumar Yadav clarified that the decision not to shake hands was taken in line with Indian government directives — not out of disrespect for the Pakistani team.
Pakistan’s Response: Official Complaint Lodged
The incident didn’t sit well with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chair Mohsin Naqvi, who:
- Filed an official complaint with the ICC
- Called for the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft from the Asia Cup
What’s Next in Asia Cup 2025?
Despite earlier calls for boycotting, India and Pakistan played the group match. Both teams may meet again in the Super Four stage or even the Asia Cup final, depending on tournament progression.
Related News : ICC Rejects PCB’s Request to Remove Match Referee in Handshake Controversy
