India’s commanding win over Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 was overshadowed by an unusual post-match controversy. Breaking from usual cricket tradition, Indian players skipped handshakes with Pakistan’s team, leading to debate and strong reactions from both sides.
What Happened in the Match
The high-stakes Group A clash took place in Dubai, where India outplayed Pakistan in all departments. Bowling first, India restricted Pakistan to a modest total of 127 for 9, with Kuldeep Yadav starring by taking 3 wickets for 18 runs. In response, India chased down the target comfortably, sealing a seven-wicket victory. Skipper Suryakumar Yadav led from the front, finishing unbeaten and hitting the winning six to end the match in style.
The No-Handshake Controversy
While Indian fans celebrated the win, an unexpected moment followed. Pakistan players reportedly walked toward India’s dressing room for the customary handshake, but the door was closed by India’s support staff. Even earlier at the toss, no handshake took place between the captains, hinting at the stance.
According to reports, this was a planned decision led by Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir. Gambhir later clarified that the choice was symbolic, to stand in solidarity with the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and to honor the Indian armed forces for their successful Operation Sindoor.
Gambhir Explains India’s No-Handshake Decision
India’s decision to skip handshakes with Pakistan after their Asia Cup win was a planned gesture. Head coach Gautam Gambhir revealed he told players not to greet or engage with the opposition, saying the act was meant to show solidarity with the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and to honor the armed forces for their role in Operation Sindoor.
- Gambhir said the stance was “about more than cricket,” sending a strong message of respect and support for those affected back home.
Pakistan’s Response
The incident disappointed the Pakistan camp. Team captain Salman Ali Agha skipped the post-match presentation ceremony, drawing attention to the growing tension between the two sides.
Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson said Agha’s absence was a “cause-and-effect” response to India’s gesture. He added that Pakistan players were ready to shake hands but found that the Indian team had already left for their dressing room.
Suryakumar, Hesson on Handshake Issue
India captain Suryakumar Yadav said skipping handshakes with Pakistan was a planned move to honor victims of the Pahalgam attack and support the armed forces. “Some things are bigger than sports,” he said. Pakistan coach Mike Hesson called it “disappointing,” saying his players went to shake hands but India had already left.
Rajeev Shukla’s Reaction Goes Viral
Meanwhile, BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla’s celebratory reaction after India’s explicit win went viral on social media. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Shukla wrote:
“Congratulations to Team India for defeating Pakistan by seven wickets. It’s a huge victory.” Shukla praised India’s bowling attack, especially Kuldeep Yadav’s match-winning spell, and praised captain Suryakumar Yadav’s composed finish. His message was widely shared by fans celebrating India’s dominance over their arch-rivals.
Why India Took This Stand
India’s gesture was rooted in national sentiment rather than cricket rivalry alone. Gambhir and the team management wanted to send a clear message after the terror attack, so the team chose to skip the usual greetings.
The move has divided opinions, with many praising it as a strong display of solidarity, while others argue that cricket should remain a platform for sportsmanship regardless of political tensions.
Conclusion
India’s win over Pakistan was marked by a symbolic no-handshake gesture, showing solidarity after the Pahalgam attack. While Pakistan was disappointed, it added a new chapter to the heated rivalry.
Written by Kinjal Walantra
