Sunil Gavaskar defends India amid handshake controversy at Asia Cup: ‘Too much to expect’

The latest India vs Pakistan clash at the Asia Cup 2025 in Dubai produced a lop-sided seven-wicket win for Suryakumar Yadav’s men, but the headlines were dominated by what happened after the game. Instead of the usual post-match handshakes, the Indian players headed straight to the dressing room. India were adamant in avoiding any kind of contact with their opposition. Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha even boycotted the presentation ceremony in protest, while the PCB filed a complaint with the ICC.

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has defended the Indian team in the midst of the controversy, arguing that the political context cannot be separated from the decision to forego handshakes.

‘Sports and politics have never been separated’

Speaking to India Today, Gavaskar explained that cricket has often been tied up with political realities. “Sports and politics have never been separated – you only need to look back over the years to see that. I wouldn’t criticise someone for taking that stance, and I wouldn’t want to get into a debate about it. When you start discussing political references, you get into policies and complexities that are frankly beyond my pay grade,” he said.

The Indian players, led by Suryakumar Yadav, were clear in their approach. After finishing the chase with a six, Surya and Shivam Dube celebrated quietly with fist bumps before leaving the field. Their silence left the Pakistan team dumbfounded as they waited in vain for a handshake.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) not only filed an official complaint with the ICC but also demanded the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft. That is a different case; the ICC has reportedly rejected PCB’s plea. While some reports suggest the ACC could consider disciplinary action, Gavaskar played down the larger implications. “I didn’t actually see it myself, but ultimately it’s up to each individual what they want to do… If someone has been calling you names, asking that you go and shake hands with them is too much to expect,” he remarked.

The BCCI hasn’t responded to any of PCB’s claims. But according to PTI, they have told their players to boycott Pakistan going forward. Team India won’t shake hands with Pakistan if they play against each other in the Super Four stage either.

But this will go even further if India qualifies for the Asia Cup final on September 28. Naqvi will be the one who presents the winners with the trophy. Since he’ll be on the presentation dais as ACC’s president, Team India won’t share the stage with them.