India To Face Punishment for Handshake ‘Boycott’ Against Pakistan? What the Rules Really Say

The cricketing world was left buzzing after India’s emphatic victory over Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 — not just because of the result, but because of what followed. In an unusual break from tradition, the Indian players did not shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts after the match. Instead, captain Suryakumar Yadav walked off with Shivam Dube, while the rest of the team celebrated only among themselves. This gesture, which many have interpreted as a silent boycott, has sparked debate over whether India could face disciplinary action.

The Post-Match Protocol Debate

In international cricket, the post-match handshake is considered a mark of sportsmanship, though it is not a binding rule under the International Cricket Council (ICC) regulations. The ICC’s Code of Conduct emphasizes respect, fair play, and avoiding actions that could bring the game into disrepute. However, there is no mandatory clause that forces players to exchange handshakes after a game.

This means that while India’s gesture may be seen as symbolic and political, it does not directly violate any formal rule. At most, the incident could be reviewed if the match referee deems the act to have crossed the line of “spirit of cricket.”

Why Did It Happen?

The incident followed a tense atmosphere that had been visible from the start of the game. At the toss itself, Suryakumar Yadav and Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha did not shake hands or make eye contact. After India chased down Pakistan’s 128-run target in just 15.5 overs, the Indian squad avoided formal interaction with their rivals.

Some reports suggest this was a deliberate collective decision to send a message beyond cricket, while others see it as an emotional reaction to the intensity of the high-stakes encounter.

Could India Be Penalised?

Cricket experts clarify that:

1. No direct rule violation – Handshakes are customary, not compulsory.
2. At referee’s discretion – If the gesture is judged to damage the game’s spirit, players could face warnings or fines.
3. Unlikely scenario – Given the absence of abusive conduct or physical altercations, punishment seems improbable.

In short, India may not face any formal penalty, though the optics of the move will continue to fuel debates.

The Bigger Picture

India’s “handshake boycott” has already sparked divided reactions among fans and analysts. While many lauded the players for standing firm in silence, others argued that sports should rise above political undertones.

Regardless of the interpretations, the episode has added yet another layer of drama to the legendary India-Pakistan cricket rivalry — a saga where emotions often spill far beyond the boundary rope.