India’s T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav once again ignoredPakistan in the post-match presentation after their victory over Oman in the third and final group-stage match of the Asia Cup 2025 on Friday (September 19).
India defeated Oman by 21 runs at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi to progress into the Super 4 stage undefeated. The Men in Blue registered comprehensive victories against UAE, Pakistan and Oman to finish on top of Group A.
The defending champions will open their Super 4 campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday (September 21) in Dubai.
Ahead of their next fixture, Suryakumar was asked if the Indianteam was prepared for the high-octane clash. In reply, the Indian captain refused to take Pakistan's name and mentioned that they're ready to face all the teams in the Super 4 round.
“All set for Super Fours (when asked about the Sunday clash),” said Suryakumar in the post-match presentation.
Notably, India had snubbed the Pakistan team completely in their previous game as Suryakumar Yadav decided not to shake hands with his opposite number, Salman Agha. The Indian captain also dedicated the seven-wicket victory to country’s armed forces and victims of the Operation Sindoor.
The entire saga led to complaints from the PCB, who demanded the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft for not taking action against India's unsportsmanlike behaviour. However, all of their requests were turned down by the ICC, despite their threats of boycotting the continental event.
Coming to the India versus Oman clash, Surya joked about his batting position as he demoted himself to No. 11 to give everyone some game time. He also appreciated Oman’s batting effort and lauded all-rounder Hardik Pandya.
"Definitely I'll try from next game (joking about batting higher than No.11). Overall impressive, I feel, Oman played unbelievable brand of cricket. I knew with their coach, Sulu sir (Sulakshan Kulkarni), there will be khadoosness. It was amazing, really enjoyed watching them bat. It's a little difficult when you're sitting and suddenly you come out and play (talking about Arshdeep and Harshit). It's so humid here. Unfortunate how he got out but you can't keep him away from the game (talking about Hardik Pandya), the way he bowled and the way he got out," he remarked.
