Dubai: Tensions spilled off the cricket field and into diplomatic territory after Pakistan team manager Naveed Akram Cheema lodged a strong protest against the conduct of Indian players during the high-profile Pakistan-India clash held in Dubai.

Cheema expressed serious concerns regarding the Indian players’ refusal to shake hands at the toss, calling it a blatant violation of sportsmanship and a challenge to the spirit of the game.

“Respect, teamwork, and mutual courtesy are the core values of cricket,” Cheema stated. “Disregarding these principles is unacceptable at any level. The Indian players’ behavior naturally triggered a reaction from our team, as it was against the very soul of the sport.”

As part of the protest, Pakistan captain Salman Agha chose not to attend the post-match presentation ceremony. Team management described this move as a symbolic gesture to register their disapproval of the Indian players’ conduct.

Head coach Mike Hesson also voiced disappointment over the Indian team’s behavior, stating, “The reaction from our side was entirely natural. It’s crucial to uphold traditional values and mutual respect on the field.”

In addition, questions have been raised about the role of match referee Andy Pycroft from Zimbabwe. According to team sources, Pycroft allegedly requested both captains not to shake hands at the toss — an unusual and unacceptable directive in the eyes of the Pakistani management.

Pakistan, in protest, refused to attend the post-match ceremony as tensions flared in a match which was the first between the bitter rivals since May´s military action.

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The match, already charged with emotion, marked the first meeting between the arch-rivals since the May  military conflict, following a deadly April 22 attack , Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), which claimed 26 lives. India accused Pakistan for the incident, further straining diplomatic ties.