Hockey India (HI) has affirmed that it will not prohibit its players from engaging in handshakes with the Pakistan team in upcoming international matches. This declaration follows a recent incident at the Sultan of Johor Cup in Malaysia, where Indian and Pakistani hockey players exchanged handshakes after their game, sparking conversations, particularly in light of recent decisions in Indian cricket to avoid such gestures.
During the Asia Cup, the Indian men’s cricket team, led by Suryakumar Yadav, opted out of customary post-match handshakes with the Pakistan team. This choice garnered mixed reactions nationwide, with some backing the symbolic move and others criticizing it as unsporting. A similar scenario unfolded when the Indian women’s team, captained by Harmanpreet Kaur, also refrained from handshakes in their Women’s World Cup 2025 match against Pakistan.
In contrast, Hockey India abides by global sports values and regulations in its approach. HI secretary Bhola Nath Singh stated that the organization adheres to the Olympic Charter and guidelines set by the International Hockey Federation (FIH). He clarified that there have been no directives from Hockey India instructing players to avoid handshakes or limit interactions with opponents.
Singh emphasized that Hockey India’s primary focus is on performance and competition on the field, with no plans to introduce new guidelines regarding this matter for future matches. He underlined that there will be no specific instructions given to players during future encounters with Pakistan, emphasizing a play-to-win mentality.
This stance underscores a significant philosophical contrast in Indian sports, with hockey emphasizing global sporting norms while cricket navigates broader national sentiments.