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"Wanted To Show...": Gambhir Sends Strong Message To Pakistan Amid No Handshake Row

Soumyajit Dutta

Gautam Gambhir stands with SKY's gesture [Source: @crazy_haris/X.com]Gautam Gambhir stands with SKY's gesture [Source: @crazy_haris/X.com]

A charged Indian team, riding a wave of national sentiment, delivered a clinical seven-wicket victory over Pakistan in their Asia Cup 2025 Group A clash at the Dubai International Stadium. The win, however, was overshadowed by a significant diplomatic gesture as the Indian players collectively opted against the customary pre and post-match handshakes with their opponents.

The move, a stark statement following the recent Pahalgam terror attack, was met with a silent yet powerful endorsement from head coach Gautam Gambhir. Waiting at the stairs to the dressing room, Gambhir was seen offering a firm, approving pat to each player, including skipper Suryakumar Yadav, in a moment that spoke volumes of the team's unified stance.

Gambhir Dedicates Win to Pahalgam Victims & Armed Forces

The emotional backdrop to the high-profile encounter was the tragic loss of 26 tourists in Jammu and Kashmir. The Indian team's performance was dedicated to the victims and the armed forces involved in the successful counter-terror operation, codenamed Operation Sindoor. 

Speaking on the Sony Sports Network post-match show, a visibly moved Gautam Gambhir underlined the fixture's significance beyond cricket.

"This match (against Pakistan) was important because as a team we wanted to show our solidarity towards the victims of the Pahalgam attack. More importantly, we want to thank the armed forces for their successful Operation Sindoor. And I am sure we will try and make the country proud and make the country happy," Gambhir said.

Gambhir's Appeal for Integrity in Indian Cricket

In a broader message, the former India opener used his platform to make a fervent appeal for honesty across all facets of Indian cricket, from the dressing room to the commentary box.

"I have had my good days, I have had my bad days as well. And that is what coaching is all about... But the important thing is that if you can work with honesty in that dressing room... that honesty is very important in any field,” Gambhir said.

"Honesty is not just in the dressing room. Honesty is everywhere. If you want to keep filling up Indian cricket, whether it is the commentary box or the studio, everywhere. Because you only compare oranges with oranges. You don't compare apples with oranges," he added.

Nevertheless, with two back-to-back wins, India is now virtually promoted to the Super Four stage where another team from Group A will be awaiting for their chances. Pakistan, losing one and winning one will have to fight for the spot in their final encounter against Oman.