Gautam Gambhir planned India’s ‘no handshake’ vs Pakistan; told players “Don’t forget Pahalgam”
Gautam Gambhir was behind the ‘no handshake’, told players: “Don’t forget Pahalgam”
A report says India head coach Gautam Gambhir planned the ‘no handshake’ gesture against Pakistan in the Asia Cup. The team did not shake hands before or after the match. Players also did not talk to the Pakistan side. The idea, as per the report, was to send a clear message after the Pahalgam terror attack.
What the report claims
Gautam Gambhir told players not to shake hands and not to engage in chats.
He asked them to cut down on social media and ignore outside noise.
He reminded them of Pahalgam: “Don’t forget what happened. Play for India.”
What Gambhir and the team said on TV
After the win, Gambhir said the gesture was to show support for the victims and their families, and to thank the armed forces for Operation Sindoor. Captain Suryakumar Yadav also said some things in life are bigger than sport and dedicated the win to the armed forces and the families affected.
What happened around the match
At the toss, there was no handshake.
After the match, India went straight to the dressing room.
Pakistan players came towards India’s area, but the Indian camp did not engage.
The scene added to the “no handshake” talk, and reactions poured in from both sides.
Could it happen again?
If India and Pakistan meet again in the Super 4 or the final, the same stance may continue. The team’s position appears to be a planned, consistent message, not a one‑off moment.