When two nations with a history of deep-seated geopolitical tensions meet on the cricket pitch, the sport often reflects the broader sentiment. Sunday’s Asia Cup encounter between India and Pakistan was no exception, delivering a powerful message beyond the boundaries of the game.
Following a decisive seven-wicket victory for India, the customary post-match handshake was conspicuously absent. The Indian team collectively chose to forgo this traditional gesture of sportsmanship, a decision reportedly backed by a key member of the support staff and approved by the BCCI.
This unusual refusal was far from an impulsive act. The match itself proceeded despite widespread calls for a boycott, fueled by escalating geopolitical tensions. These tensions were tragically amplified by the Pahalgam terror attack in April, which claimed the lives of 26 Indian tourists, and India’s subsequent ‘Operation Sindoor’ against terrorist bases across the border in May. Given these somber events, the Indian camp felt that a handshake with Pakistani players would be an inappropriate gesture.
The moment of victory, when captain Suryakumar Yadav struck the winning six, saw him turn directly to his dugout, bypassing any interaction with the Pakistani side. Pakistan’s captain, Salman Ali Agha, along with his teammates, formed a line for the traditional handshake and even approached the Indian dugout, but their counterparts offered no response.
When asked if this was a collective decision, Suryakumar Yadav affirmed, “We took a team call. We had come only to play, and we believe we delivered our response on the field. However, some matters transcend mere sportsmanship. We proudly dedicate this victory to our armed forces who bravely participated in ‘Operation Sindoor’ and stand in unwavering solidarity with the families of the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack.”
This provocative gesture led to immediate repercussions. Pakistan’s captain, Salman Ali Agha, boycotted the post-match presentation. Coach Mike Hesson acknowledged the palpable bitterness, stating, “We intended to shake hands and are genuinely disappointed that the opposition did not reciprocate. While we are upset with our performance, the desire for a handshake was there.” Hesson clarified that Salman’s absence from the presentation was a direct consequence of the incident.
The tension was evident even before the match concluded. During the coin toss for the Group A fixture, both Suryakumar and Salman avoided the traditional handshake and made no eye contact, a clear signal that had already caught the attention of the wider cricketing community.
It has been revealed that the Indian team’s approach to pre- and post-match protocols was deliberated well in advance. The decision, strongly advocated by a prominent member of the support staff known for his unwavering stance on issues concerning Pakistan, received full endorsement from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
“We stand in complete alignment with both our government and the BCCI,” Captain Suryakumar emphasized, echoing sentiments previously expressed by assistant coaches Ryan Ten Doeschate (fielding) and Sitanshu Kotak (batting) in earlier media interactions. This further underscores the official nature of India’s decision.
With India and Pakistan scheduled for another encounter at the same venue next Sunday, it is almost certain that these tensions and controversies will continue to reverberate, adding another dramatic chapter to their rivalry.