Hong Kong Sixes: India, Pakistan avoid handshakes amid political tensions

Hong Kong Sixes Cricket Match: India and Pakistan Avoid Handshakes

In the 2025 Hong Kong Sixes tournament, the Indian cricket team, led by Dinesh Karthik, narrowly defeated Pakistan in a rain-affected match. Batting first, India posted 86/4 in six overs, highlighted by Robin Uthappa’s explosive 28 runs off 11 balls. Pakistan fell short by two runs according to the DLS method.

The match echoed ongoing political tensions, as both teams refrained from the traditional post-match handshakes. This gesture of avoidance has been consistent since the Asia Cup 2025, where players from both sides skipped handshakes in all their encounters.

"There was no chance of a handshake; we will follow whatever has been the norm." – Source, Hindustan Times

The Indian T20I team, captained by Suryakumar Yadav, also did not shake hands with Pakistan in their three matches during the Asia Cup 2025.

Ongoing Rivalry and Political Context

India and Pakistan are grouped together in this annual six-a-side tournament and have faced off multiple times this year, including three clashes in the 2025 T20 Asia Cup where India won all matches, including the final.

The intense cricket rivalry continues against the backdrop of deteriorating bilateral relations since the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025, triggering boycott calls, heated on-field exchanges, and official complaints between the cricket boards.

Summary

The persistent avoidance of handshakes between India and Pakistan cricket teams at tournaments reflects deeper political discord, overshadowing the sport’s spirit amid ongoing regional tensions.

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NewsBytes NewsBytes — 2025-11-07

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