No Handshakes Between India and Pakistan in Asia Cup

By Abhishek Kumar

India vs Pakistan Asia Cup Super Four clash once again started with drama off the field when Indian players skipped the traditional handshake at the toss in Dubai. Captain Suryakumar Yadav refused to shake hands with Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha just like in the earlier group stage game. The no-handshake move has become a big talking point in this tournament. It comes at a time when relations between the two countries are tense after the Pahalgam attack earlier this year. Reports suggest that the BCCI and Indian government have advised players not to shake hands as a show of protest.

Pakistan camp reacted sharply. Coach Mike Hesson called the move unsporting and the PCB has already raised the issue with ICC. They even demanded the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft accusing him of not handling the matter. Pakistan also showed their frustration by delaying a team appearance before their UAE match earlier in the week. For India the decision is seen as a symbolic act players standing with the nation and sending a message beyond cricket. But it has also triggered debate over sportsmanship with critics saying the rivalry is losing its gentleman’s spirit.

As the Asia Cup moves forward, this no handshake story is adding extra fire to the biggest rivalry in cricket. It shows how politics and cricket are deeply connected when India and Pakistan face each other.