India Wins Big in Dubai, But Post-Match Tensions Steal Headlines
In a high-voltage cricket match that went beyond the boundary ropes, India took on Pakistan on September 14 (Sunday) in Dubai, under extremely tense geopolitical circumstances. Just months after the two nations found themselves on the brink of military confrontation, the match itself was clouded in controversy before and after the first ball was bowled.
Despite growing calls for India to boycott the fixture, Suryakumar Yadav’s men took the field and delivered a resounding performance. They demolished Pakistan in a one-sided clash, chasing down the target comfortably to win by seven wickets. However, what unfolded after the match caught more attention than the game itself.
Indian Players Walk Off Without Handshake, Sparking Tensions
Following the final ball, Indian players reportedly walked away without shaking hands with their Pakistani counterparts — a gesture typically considered part of the spirit of the game. This move was met with visible disappointment from Pakistan’s team management.
Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha skipped the post-match presentation, and head coach Mike Hesson expressed his dissatisfaction during the press conference.
“I think it’s just the flow-on effect… we were obviously keen to engage and shake hands at the end of the match. That didn’t happen,” Hesson said. “We went over there to shake hands, and they were already walking to the changing room. That was disappointing.”
Suryakumar Yadav Responds: “Some Things Are Bigger Than Sports”
Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav addressed the controversy after the match and gave a clear statement regarding the team’s actions. He highlighted that the decision was not made in isolation but was aligned with both the Indian government and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
“We came here just to play the game. And we gave the proper reply,” Surya stated.
“A few things in life are ahead of sportsman spirit. As I said earlier, we stand with all the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack. We also dedicate this win to our brave armed forces who took part in Operation Sindoor,” he added.
The Indian skipper’s remarks made it clear that the team’s behavior post-match was a symbolic act of solidarity with national sentiments, rather than a display of poor sportsmanship.
