The India-Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup 2025 took a controversial turn when Indian players, led by skipper Suryakumar Yadav, refused to shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts. Reports reveal that India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir was the architect of this symbolic protest, advising players to refrain from socializing or engaging with Pakistan’s team as a mark of solidarity with the victims of the recent Pahalgam terror attack.
According to Telecom Asia Sport, Gambhir told the squad:
“Cut down on social media, stop reading the noise. Your job is to play for India. Don’t forget what happened in Pahalgam. Don’t shake hands, don’t engage — just go out, show your best, and win for India.”
After India’s seven-wicket victory, Gambhir reiterated that the team stood with the victims and praised the Indian Armed Forces for “Operation Sindoor.” Captain Suryakumar Yadav echoed these sentiments, dedicating the win to the armed forces and the families of the Pahalgam victims.
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