Why Did Pakistan Coach Mike Hesson Express Disappointment Over Handshake Snub?
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Synopsis
In a tense cricket rivalry, Pakistan's head coach Mike Hesson expressed disappointment after Indian players snubbed customary post-match handshakes. This incident has sparked discussions about sportsmanship and respect in cricket, overshadowing India's victory in the Asia Cup Group A match.
Key Takeaways
- Mike Hesson voiced disappointment over handshake snub.
- Indian players did not engage in post-match handshakes.
- India secured a seven-wicket victory.
- Kuldeep Yadav excelled with bowling figures of 3-18.
- Handshake incident reflects tensions in cricket rivalry.
Dubai, Sep 15 (NationPress) Pakistan's head coach Mike Hesson has voiced his disappointment after the Indian players snubbed members of his team by refusing to participate in the traditional post-match handshakes following their Asia Cup Group A encounter on Sunday. Hesson remarked that his team had anticipated this gesture regardless of the match outcome.
“We were prepared to extend our hands. It’s disheartening that the opposition chose not to reciprocate,” Hesson stated during the post-match press briefing, underscoring that Pakistan regards the handshake as a customary display of respect among competitors. It has been reported that Hesson subsequently spoke with the match referee about the incident, although there has been no official response regarding the matter.
This incident cast a shadow over what was otherwise a dominating performance by India, who achieved a seven-wicket victory at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Chasing a target of 128 runs, captain Suryakumar Yadav led the innings with an unbeaten 47 runs off 37 deliveries, with Shivam Dube contributing 10 not out as India clinched the victory in just 15.5 overs. Earlier, Kuldeep Yadav's outstanding bowling figures of 3-18 dismantled Pakistan's batting order, limiting them to 127/9.
Signs of tension were evident even before the match commenced, as captains Suryakumar and Salman Agha bypassed the customary handshake during the toss. Post-match, the Indian players departed without the usual exchange of pleasantries, avoiding eye contact or gestures of goodwill.
Suryakumar Yadav dedicated India's victory to the Indian armed forces, stating that their courage and commitment, particularly following the Pahalgam terror attack, had motivated the players.
India’s dominance on the field secured them two crucial points in Group A, but the aftermath of the handshake incident—and Hesson's reported meeting with the match referee—has added an extra layer of intrigue to cricket's most intense rivalry.
India's strategy, which relied heavily on spin, proved effective for the second consecutive match. Left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav spearheaded the attack with figures of 3-18, while Axar Patel supported with 2-18. Varun Chakaravarthy contributed with figures of 1-24, as the trio demonstrated remarkable control on a sluggish pitch in Dubai.
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Point of View
The handshake incident highlights the complexities of sportsmanship in a high-stakes environment. While India celebrated a significant victory, the lack of customary gestures could indicate underlying tensions that merit attention. Both teams must navigate these challenges, ensuring that the spirit of the game remains intact.
NationPress
14/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the handshake snub between India and Pakistan?
The handshake snub occurred after the Asia Cup Group A match, where Indian players declined to engage in post-match handshakes with Pakistan's team, leading to disappointment expressed by Pakistan's coach Mike Hesson.
How did Mike Hesson react to the handshake incident?
Mike Hesson expressed his disappointment, stating that his team had expected the traditional handshake as a sign of respect, regardless of the match outcome.
What was the outcome of the match between India and Pakistan?
India won the match, achieving a seven-wicket victory, with standout performances from Suryakumar Yadav and Kuldeep Yadav.
What does the handshake snub signify in cricket?
The handshake snub underscores the intensity of the rivalry between India and Pakistan, raising questions about sportsmanship and respect within the game.
What were Kuldeep Yadav's bowling figures in the match?
Kuldeep Yadav had impressive bowling figures of 3 wickets for 18 runs, playing a crucial role in limiting Pakistan's score.
