World · India Bureau
India faces handshake protocol question ahead of Pakistan Asia Cup final
With India set to face Pakistan in the Asia Cup final, questions loom over whether Indian players will break their recent pattern of declining to shake hands with Pakistani counterparts. The Indian team has refrained from the traditional post-match gesture since Operation Sindoor.
LSN India ·
India's potential meeting with Pakistan in the Asia Cup final raises questions about diplomatic protocol on the cricket field, particularly regarding the customary handshake between opposing teams. Indian players have not engaged in handshakes with their Pakistani counterparts during recent Asia Cup matches and ICC events, a practice that began following Operation Sindoor.
The gesture, traditionally part of cricket's sporting etiquette, has become a point of focus given the current bilateral tensions between the two nations. The absence of handshakes has been noted across multiple matches and international tournaments where the two teams have competed.
Should India advance to the Asia Cup final against Pakistan, the moment would draw significant attention from cricket observers and diplomatic circles alike. The encounter would put the spotlight on whether established customs in international cricket will be maintained or further affected by the prevailing political climate.
Cricket boards and match officials typically expect teams to exchange handshakes as a mark of sportsmanship following matches. The consistency of India's approach in recent encounters suggests the pattern may continue, though any final decision would likely rest with the team management and the Board of Control for Cricket in India.