Questions are being raised regarding the handshakes during the India-Pakistan final at the Asian Games. Find out key details about the rules for handshakes between players and the decision made by Team India.
India vs Pakistan Asian Games Final: Will Indian Players Shake Hands With Pakistan?
Whenever the Indian and Pakistani cricket teams face each other on the field, the conversation extends far beyond the match itself. With the two teams set to clash in the 2026 Asian Games final, a specific question has already sparked discussion: given the recent trend of not shaking hands, all eyes will be on Team India's stance during the final.
India secured their spot in the final by defeating Sri Lanka by 124 runs in the semi-final, while Pakistan booked their place in the title clash by beating Bangladesh. Now, the two teams will face off for the Asian Games gold medal on October 3.
The issue of handshakes before the match has also become a topic of discussion. In recent India-Pakistan encounters, Indian players have refrained from shaking hands with their Pakistani counterparts. Now, the question arises whether the same stance will be seen in the Asian Games final as well.
Is shaking hands mandatory?
The Asian Games are held under the supervision of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA). Under current rules, shaking hands is not mandatory for athletes. However, sportsmanship and good conduct are considered important in sporting competitions. Therefore, if an athlete refuses to shake hands, the decision of the organizing committee could be significant.
A similar incident occurred at the 2016 Olympics as well.
At the 2016 Rio Olympics, Egyptian judoka Islam El-Shehaby refused to shake hands with Israeli athlete Or Sasson. The IOC subsequently reprimanded him, deeming his behavior inappropriate.
All eyes on the decision regarding cricket
At the Asian Games, Indian and Pakistani athletes have been seen shaking hands in the traditional manner in sports such as table tennis and squash. Now, all eyes will be on the decision the team management takes regarding cricket. According to reports, a decision on this matter could be reached after BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia arrives in Nagoya.
