Another ‘handshake snub’ looms? ‘If Indian players don’t shake hands…’ - What Pakistan advised their junior hockey team

IND vs PAK, Sultan of Johor Cup 2025: Ahead of their Sultan of Johor Cup clash in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, against India on Tuesday, the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has urged its youth national team players to focus on their game and avoid confrontations or emotional displays amid lingering sports-related tensions between the two neighbouring nations.

A senior official of PHF said the players have been told to be mentally prepared for a possible no-handshakes policy from the Indian team.

“The players have been told that if the Indian players don’t shake hands before or after the match, just ignore the gesture and move on. They have also been told to avoid any emotional tussles or signs during the game,” a senior PHF official told PTI.

Why Has the PHF Issued This Advice?

The PHF's warning comes in the wake of heightened tensions following ‘Operation Sindoor’ and the Pahalgam terror attack, which have spilled over into sporting encounters. A precedent was set during the 2025 Asia Cup men’s cricket tournament, when diplomatic and sporting decorum broke down.

During that tournament, the Indian cricket team refused to shake hands with Pakistani players, who in turn boycotted presentation ceremonies and press conferences, lodging complaints with the International Cricket Council (ICC).

The standoff escalated to the point where India has yet to accept their trophy from the Asian Cricket Council chief and Pakistani minister Mohsin Naqvi.

How Have Previous Matches Between India and Pakistan Unfolded?

Similar incidents have occurred across multiple sports. During the India-Pakistan women’s cricket match in Colombo during the 2025 World Cup group stage, the no-handshake policy continued. In football tournaments, Pakistani players have occasionally engaged in provocative celebrations that intensified tensions.

What Can Be Expected in the Sultan of Johor Cup?

The Indian junior men’s hockey team is expected to maintain a similar stance, potentially avoiding handshakes with the Pakistani side.

The PHF’s instructions aim to ensure the youth team remains disciplined and focused on performance, rather than getting embroiled in political or emotional theatrics.

What Is Pakistan’s Recent Hockey Record?

Pakistan had previously refused to send their team to India for the men’s hockey Asia Cup in August, held in Rajgir, Bihar, with Bangladesh taking their place. In the tournament, Pakistan began strongly with a 7-1 victory over hosts Malaysia, but suffered a defeat to Great Britain in their second match.

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