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The India–Pakistan cricket rivalry has once again moved from the pitch to the headlines. This time, the spotlight is not on batting brilliance or bowling heroics, but on a post-match gesture — or rather, the lack of one. Several Indian players were seen avoiding the customary handshake after their contest with Pakistan, sparking debate across sporting and political circles. Former Pakistan wicketkeeper Rashid Latif strongly criticised the incident, linking it to larger issues and urging that cricket should not become a battlefield for political disputes.
The Handshake Controversy
The handshake at the end of a match is more than a formality. It is a ritual that signifies mutual respect, sportsmanship, and closure to the contest. When Indian players reportedly skipped this step against Pakistan, it didn’t go unnoticed. Fans, analysts, and media outlets quickly dissected the moment, questioning whether it was deliberate or a product of heightened emotions after a high-pressure game.
For Pakistan supporters, it came across as disrespectful. For many Indian fans, it was brushed off as a small incident. But in the context of India–Pakistan relations, even the smallest gestures carry amplified meaning.
Rashid Latif’s Strong Words
Rashid Latif, never one to shy away from strong opinions, reacted sharply to the snub. He referred to Pahalgam, a region often mentioned in political debates, and expressed frustration at how it was being symbolically dragged into cricket.
“If it’s about Pahalgam, then fight a war,” he remarked. “But don’t bring it into cricket.”
His statement struck a chord because it encapsulated the frustration many feel — cricket, one of the few remaining venues where India and Pakistan meet, is increasingly becoming entangled with politics. For Latif, the post-match moment should have been an opportunity to show maturity, not deepen divides.
Why Pahalgam Became Part of the Debate
Pahalgam, a scenic valley in Jammu & Kashmir, has long been tied to political and territorial disputes. When Latif mentioned it, he was highlighting how larger national conflicts were being allowed to seep into the spirit of cricket. His point was simple: political disagreements should be handled at diplomatic or military levels, not in a handshake line after a cricket match.
The Symbolism of a Handshake
In sport, small gestures can speak louder than words:
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Respect: Acknowledging the rival team’s effort, regardless of result.
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Unity: Demonstrating that cricket is bigger than any political barrier.
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Tradition: Honouring a centuries-old practice of fair play.
When that ritual is skipped, it risks sending the message that animosity off the field has triumphed over sportsmanship on it.
Fan Reactions
The incident and Latif’s remarks stirred massive debate among cricket fans worldwide.
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Supporters in Pakistan largely agreed with Latif, saying India had set a poor example by letting politics overshadow the game.
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Some Indian fans argued the reaction was exaggerated and pointed out that post-match tensions sometimes lead to rushed exits.
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Neutral observers noted that avoiding handshakes only fuels narratives that sport can’t rise above politics.
Cricket as a Bridge, Not a Barrier
Historically, cricket has been one of the few spaces where India and Pakistan have interacted, especially during times of strained relations. From the camaraderie between Wasim Akram and Sachin Tendulkar to the respect shared by Virat Kohli and Babar Azam, there have been countless moments that showcased friendship despite rivalry.
Latif’s comments highlight the importance of preserving that bridge. Without respect and courtesy, cricket risks becoming another platform for hostility, rather than one that demonstrates shared love for the game.
Lessons for the Future
Rivalries as intense as India–Pakistan will always bring high pressure, emotions, and drama. But players, as representatives of their nations, carry the responsibility of setting an example. A simple handshake may not solve political disputes, but it sends a signal to millions of fans that competition can coexist with respect.
Latif’s anger underscores the need to protect cricket’s integrity. His message is clear: political disputes must stay out of sport. Players, boards, and fans alike must ensure that the game continues to be a unifying platform, not another battlefield.
Conclusion
Rashid Latif’s criticism of India’s handshake snub over Pahalgam is about more than one match. It is about what cricket should stand for: respect, fairness, and the ability to rise above political differences. The rivalry between India and Pakistan will always be fierce, but sportsmanship should never be sacrificed.
As Latif emphasized, if political conflicts exist, they should be resolved in the proper arenas — not at the cost of cricket’s spirit. A handshake may be a small act, but in the context of India–Pakistan cricket, it is a powerful symbol.
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