Published on: Sep 15, 2025 4:49 pm IST|Updated on: Sep 23, 2025 2:54 pm IST
In a tournament that has been lousy so far, with almost every contest being a one-sided affair, Match 6 of the Asia Cup 2025 between India and Pakistan stood out not just for all the drama brewing outside before the game even began, but for what followed after the final ball. India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, clinched a dominating win over their arch-rivals by 7 wickets, but what caught global attention was the team’s decision to not engage in post-match handshakes with the Pakistani players, a gesture typically seen as a hallmark of sportsman spirit.
This move sparked widespread debate across social media and cricketing circles, with fans and pundits questioning whether the spirit of the game had been compromised. However, Suryakumar Yadav’s post-match comments offered clarity, revealing that the decision was deliberate, personal, and deeply symbolic.
Speaking to reporters after the match, Suryakumar Yadav addressed the elephant in the room with a composed yet firm statement:
“A few things in life are ahead of sportsman spirit. We did what we felt was right at that moment.”
This quote, now widely circulated, underscores the emotional and political undertones that often accompany India-Pakistan encounters. While cricket is often hailed as a bridge between nations, there are moments when players feel compelled to prioritize personal values, national sentiment, or broader socio-political contexts over customary gestures.
Yadav did not elaborate on the specifics, but his words suggest that the decision was not made in haste or out of disrespect, it was a conscious choice after what happened in Pahalgam earlier this year, likely discussed within the team leadership. The Indian players did not engage in any verbal spats or visible confrontations during the match, maintaining professionalism throughout. Yet, the absence of handshakes sent a message that resonated far beyond the boundary ropes.
In recent years, sporting events between India and Pakistan have been increasingly influenced by geopolitical developments, and players often find themselves navigating complex emotional terrain. While ICC and ACC tournaments mandate certain protocols, handshakes are not compulsory, and teams retain the autonomy to opt out based on internal decisions.
“Our government and BCCI, we were aligned. Together, we came here, we took a call and I feel we came here just to play the game. And we gave the proper reply,” said Suryakumar at the post-match press conference.
Suryakumar’s stance reflects a growing sentiment among athletes who believe that sportsmanship doesn’t always require symbolic gestures, especially when deeper issues are at play. His quote—“We did what we felt was right at that moment”—suggests that the team prioritized integrity and collective conscience over optics.
“I have told it at the presentation as well that we actually stand with all the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack. And we stand with their families also, express our solidarity. Also, as I said at the post-match presentation, we dedicate this win to our brave armed forces who took part in Operation Sindoor. And as they continue to inspire us all, we will try our best whenever given an opportunity to inspire them as well, if possible.”“I’ll talk about social media. All the players in my team, the support staff and all, we talked on the first day we came here that we’ll try to cut the outside noise by 75-80%,”
“I have told it at the presentation as well that we actually stand with all the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack. And we stand with their families also, express our solidarity. Also, as I said at the post-match presentation, we dedicate this win to our brave armed forces who took part in Operation Sindoor. And as they continue to inspire us all, we will try our best whenever given an opportunity to inspire them as well, if possible.”
“I’ll talk about social media. All the players in my team, the support staff and all, we talked on the first day we came here that we’ll try to cut the outside noise by 75-80%,”
What happened in Pahalgam couldn’t be justified. Team India didn’t show any emotions during the match and were never involved in any arguments or heated altercations. They just played good cricket, dominated Pakistan in every facet of the game, won the game, and chose to shut the doors for any kind of gestures or handshakes. As Surya said, “A few things in life are ahead of sportsman spirit. We did what we felt was right at that moment” signifies that a line should be drawn for personal choices and ethics.
The cricketing world remains divided on the incident. Some former players have praised India’s decision as a quiet stand, while others have called for clearer communication from the BCCI or team management. Fans, too, are split, some applauding the team for standing firm, others lamenting the loss of a symbolic gesture that often promotes unity.