What Happened After Asia Cup Tensions? India and Pakistan Hockey Players Share High-Fives!
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a refreshing contrast to the tense atmosphere at the Asia Cup, Indian and Pakistani junior hockey players displayed sportsmanship at the Sultan of Johor Cup. After an intense match that ended in a 3-3 draw, players exchanged high-fives, showcasing the spirit of unity in sports despite political tensions. Discover more about this heartwarming moment!
Key Takeaways
- Players exchanged high-fives after national anthems.
- The match ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw.
- Contrast with the Asia Cup cricket tournament's tense atmosphere.
- Importance of sportsmanship emphasized by both teams.
- PHF's guidance led to a respectful game environment.
Johor (Malaysia), Oct 14 (NationPress) The junior hockey match between India and Pakistan at the Sultan of Johor Cup in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, kicked off with players from both nations exchanging high-fives after the national anthems. The game concluded with friendly handshakes following a tightly contested 3-3 draw on Tuesday.
This friendly interaction starkly contrasts with the recent Asia Cup cricket tournament, where Indian and Pakistani players chose to limit their on-field engagement.
During the Asia Cup, the Indian cricket team, captained by Suryakumar Yadav, opted against the traditional handshake with their Pakistani counterparts due to the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, dedicating their win to families impacted by the Pahalgam terror attack. India subsequently refused to accept the trophy from PCB and ACC chief Mohsin Naqvi, who is also Pakistan's interior minister.
Yadav commented, "I don’t know what the future holds. Dilli abhi bahut door hai (Delhi is still very far). We’ll see what happens with Pakistan in the next game. For now, we want to savor this moment."
In contrast, the atmosphere at the Sultan of Johor Cup hockey match was business as usual. Players exchanged high-fives after the national anthems and concluded with handshakes following an exciting 3-3 draw.
Prior to the match, the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) had reportedly advised its players to avoid confrontations and focus solely on the game, which contributed to maintaining a respectful and sportsmanlike tone on the field.
Point of View
I believe this moment at the Sultan of Johor Cup reflects the true spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie. In a world often marred by political tensions, it's heartening to witness young athletes from India and Pakistan come together in mutual respect and enjoyment of the game. Such moments can serve as a reminder that sports can unite us beyond our differences.
NationPress
14/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the India vs Pakistan junior hockey match?
The match ended in a closely contested 3-3 draw.
How did the players interact during the match?
The players exchanged high-fives after the national anthems and shook hands at the end of the match.
What was the atmosphere like during the game?
The atmosphere was friendly and respectful, with an emphasis on sportsmanship.
What was the context around the Asia Cup cricket match?
During the Asia Cup, Indian players refrained from traditional interactions due to political tensions.
What advice did the Pakistan Hockey Federation give its players?
The PHF advised players to avoid confrontations and focus on the game.
