Gautam Gambhir Changes Handshake Protocol After Pakistan Match—But Only For Umpires

After a week of buzz and controversy around the handshake row, India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir put a unique spin on the post-match protocol following India’s dominant win over Pakistan in the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup 2025. This time, instead of blanking all post-match greetings, Gambhir directed his players to shake hands—but only with the match officials, not with the Pakistani team.

The Handshake Row—And Its New Twist

The India–Pakistan group clash had set off a storm when neither captain shook hands at the toss, and both teams skipped post-match handshakes. In the previous encounter, Indian players even avoided shaking hands with match officials. The approach was highly discussed in cricket circles and across social media.

But Gambhir, known for his directness and sense of occasion, made it clear India would maintain its firm stance regarding their rivals, yet would show respect for the umpires and match referee. Right after the final ball, camera footage showed Gambhir calling the team out from the dressing room, urging:

“Arey umpire se toh mil le!”
(At least greet the umpires!)

As Indian players, led by Suryakumar Yadav, made their way over and greeted the match officials, the gesture made headlines. No Pakistan player was included in the greeting.

Why The Change Matters

This adjustment by Gambhir keeps India’s hard stance on the handshake issue intact, but ensures the officials’ role is recognised. The Indian team made it clear they would not engage with Pakistan, reflecting both competitive heat and extra-sporting tensions. Yet, by greeting umpires and the referee, they avoided a blanket boycott of cricketing custom.

The move also sent a clear message: when it comes to rivalry, India chooses its battles. While India and Pakistan skipped out on any friendly gestures, Gambhir made sure the spirit of the game was respected where it should be—toward match officials.

Rivalry Or Not? Suryakumar’s Take

After the match, Suryakumar Yadav was asked whether the India–Pakistan fixture should still be called a rivalry. With typical candour, he said:

“I think you should stop asking questions on the rivalry because rivalry is when 15–20 matches are played by both sides, and one side is ahead by 8–7. It is called playing good cricket and a rivalry. 3–0, 10–1, I don’t know what the stat is, but this is not a rivalry anymore.”

On the Field: Fire & Ice

India’s win was built on brilliant performances from Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill, their opening partnership setting a solid platform. Suryakumar highlighted the duo’s chemistry, calling it a “fire and ice combination.”

“The way the boys are stepping up in every game is making my job very easy. They complement each other really well (Abhishek and Gill). It’s like a fire and ice combination.”

India’s six-wicket victory was convincing, entertaining, and came with a composed, disciplined finish.

What It Means Going Forward

Gautam Gambhir’s tweak to the handshake protocol is more than a minor change—it’s a statement about respect, boundaries, and clarity amid one of cricket’s most-watched contests. As the Asia Cup continues, all eyes will remain not just on the runs and wickets, but also on each subtle gesture between cricket’s fiercest rivals.