Sourav Ganguly Addresses No-Handshake Controversy in India-Pakistan Clash
In a recent encounter during the 2025 Asia Cup, the longstanding rivalry between India and Pakistan took an unexpected turn, igniting discussions around sportsmanship and competitive spirit. Former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly chose to remain neutral regarding the no-handshake incident that followed the match, which saw India triumph over Pakistan by seven wickets. This incident has not only stirred emotions among fans but has also prompted formal complaints from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
The Match and Its Aftermath
The Group A match, held on September 15, 2025, concluded with India chasing down a modest target of 128 runs, finishing with 25 balls to spare. Suryakumar Yadav, leading the Indian side, played a pivotal role, scoring 47 runs. However, the post-match atmosphere soured when Yadav and teammate Shivam Dube opted to skip the customary handshake with their Pakistani counterparts, a gesture that has traditionally symbolized respect and sportsmanship in cricket.
This decision did not go unnoticed. The PCB lodged two complaints: one with match referee Andy Pycroft, alleging bias, and another with the International Cricket Council (ICC), demanding Pycroft’s removal from the tournament. The PCB claimed that Pycroft had instructed Pakistan’s captain, Salman Ali Agha, not to shake hands with Yadav during the toss, further fueling the controversy.
Ganguly’s Response
Sourav Ganguly, who is preparing for a second term as President of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), addressed the issue during a recent event in Kolkata. He refrained from making a detailed comment, suggesting that the question should be directed to the Indian captain. “You need to ask the captain what he did and why he did it. I am too far. I am launching my ethnic brand. I really don’t have an answer to that,” Ganguly stated, emphasizing his focus on other commitments.
The PCB’s reaction has been severe, with threats to withdraw from their next match against the UAE if their demands regarding Pycroft are not met. This situation highlights the growing tensions in cricket, particularly in matches involving India and Pakistan, where emotions often run high.
A Shift in Competitive Dynamics
Ganguly’s comments extended beyond the handshake controversy, touching on the broader competitive landscape between India and Pakistan. He expressed a sense of disappointment regarding the current state of the rivalry, stating that the competition is no longer what it used to be. “Pakistan is no match. I say that with respect, just because I see what the team is, it’s the lack of quality on the side,” he remarked.
Historically, matches between India and Pakistan have been characterized by intense competition and high stakes. Legendary players like Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and Saeed Anwar once defined the rivalry, making it one of the most anticipated events in the cricketing calendar. However, Ganguly noted that the current Pakistani team lacks the same caliber of match-winners, leading to a perceived imbalance in competition.
The Evolution of Rivalry
Ganguly’s perspective reflects a significant shift in the dynamics of cricketing rivalries. The once fierce competition has evolved, with India establishing itself as a dominant force in international cricket. “I’d rather watch India play Australia and India play South Africa as well as England, Sri Lanka, and even Afghanistan,” he stated, indicating a preference for matches that offer a more competitive edge.
The former captain’s comments resonate with many cricket enthusiasts who have observed the changing landscape of the sport. The last five years have seen India consistently outperform Pakistan in various formats, leading to a growing sentiment that the rivalry has lost its luster.
Conclusion
The no-handshake incident in the recent India-Pakistan match has sparked a broader conversation about sportsmanship, competitive integrity, and the evolving nature of cricketing rivalries. Sourav Ganguly’s measured response highlights the complexities involved in such high-stakes encounters, where emotions and expectations often collide. As the cricketing world watches closely, the future of this historic rivalry remains uncertain, with both teams striving to reclaim their competitive edge.
