UAE fancy KO chances amid handshake row as Pakistan threaten to pull out

UAE's hopes of qualifying for the knockout round of the Asia Cup got a major boost amid the ongoing handshake controversy between arch-rivals India and Pakistan.

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The gesture of the Indian team prompted Pakistan to threaten to pull out of their match against the UAE on Wednesday in Dubai.

If Pakistan pull out of the match, UAE will get a walkover with two points. Having beaten Oman in their previous match, UAE will procure four points, which will be enough to pave their way into the next round.

Indian players refused to shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts after the match. India beat Pakistan by seven wickets in the politically-charged Asia Cup match, which was their first meeting after a brief military skirmish in the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack.

New Delhi blamed Pakistan for the attacks while Islamabad continued to deny their involvement. However, India launched Operation Sindoor. Pakistan also retaliated and a ceasefire was possible only after the intervention of the international community.

In the post-match press conference Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav made it clear that they are here to play cricket.