A handshake is a simple gesture, but in the high-stakes world of India-Pakistan cricket, its absence can speak volumes. A significant controversy overshadowed the recent Asia Cup, where the Indian team, led by captain Suryakumar Yadav, decided to forgo the customary post-match handshakes with their Pakistani counterparts in all their encounters.This decision wasn't a one-off moment of tension but a deliberate stance maintained throughout the tournament. After the first match between the arch-rivals, the Indian team's choice not to shake hands immediately drew attention. When questioned about it, Suryakumar Yadav indicated it was a team decision, suggesting their focus was solely on playing cricketAs the tournament progressed, the "no-handshake" policy continued, sparking a formal complaint from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to the Asian Cricket CouncilThe situation was rooted in more than just on-field rivalry; it was linked to recent border tensions between the two nations following a terror attack.Defending the move, Suryakumar explained that "some things in life are bigger than sportsman's spirit," framing the decision as a response to larger, off-field events.On the other side, Pakistan's captain, Salman Ali Agha, expressed his disappointment. He stated that in his long career, he had never witnessed teams refusing to shake hands, even when political relations were worse. Agha felt the gesture was disrespectful to the spirit of cricket itself He also claimed that Suryakumar had shaken hands with him in private meetings away from the cameras, suggesting the public snub was a result of instructions.The tension peaked during the final, where India defeated Pakistan. The Indian team once again avoided handshakes and reportedly skipped the trophy presentation ceremony The controversy left a lasting mark on the tournament, with the unspoken gestures off the pitch becoming as talked about as the action on it.
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