Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav discussed the team’s choice not to engage in the traditional handshake with Pakistan after their match. Both captains avoided the handshake during the coin toss, mirroring the post-match scenario. Yadav and Shivam Dube’s immediate retreat to the changing room after the game ignited debate. According to Yadav, this decision was mandated, with the team acknowledging that certain matters transcend ‘sportsman spirit.’
“We took a call as we came here to only play. We gave a proper reply. We are aligned with BCCI and the government. I feel a few things in life are ahead of sportsman spirit. I have told it at the presentation as well. We stand with all the victims of the Pahalagam terror attack,” said Yadav. He further stated, “We stand with their families also and express our solidarity. As I said, we dedicate this win to our brave armed forces who took part in Operation Sindoor. As they continue to inspire us all, we will try our best to, whenever given the opportunity, inspire them as well if possible.”