Former Pakistan cricketer Danish Kaneria opens up on the disappointing game played by Pakistan against India in the group stage of the Asia Cup 2025. He pointed out team management and players for the loss due to poor performances. Kaneria also praised the Indian team for their dominating show against Pakistan, after which the Men in Blue skipped the handshake with the opponent team.
Talking about the handshake controversy, he said,
"Pakistan cricket is in a pathetic state right now. This always happens; when there is an issue (handshake snub), instead of taking responsibility, they keep blaming others."
Further, he said,
"The selectors were entrusted with the responsibility of 22 crore people. What team did you select? What coaching assignments did you give? What was your game plan, strategy, and approach?"
The former cricketer also stated that the gap was very visible between both the teams.
He said,
"Pakistan is not playing well as expected, while India is a top-tier team. Judging by their performance in the last game, it is clear that Pakistan's team is not better than the Indian team."
After the handshake controversy, Mohsin Naqvi also demanded the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft from the Asia Cup 2025, stating that he requested the captains to not shake at the time of toss.
Further, Kaneria also criticized the controversies regarding the side, particularly the handshake incident with India.
He said,
"The handshake incident caused a big commotion. If Pakistan continues like this and doesn't focus on cricket, they will head further toward decline."