The mood in Dubai saw a heartening turn ahead of the Pakistan vs India match as Pakistani cricketers were welcomed by Indian fans at the ICC Cricket Academy, and they responded with grace and warmth.
Just a day before the much-anticipated Super Fours clash between India and Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025, the Pakistan team arrived for an optional practice session at the ICC cricket academy in Dubai where they were greeted by a group of Indian supporters who cheered for them and requested autographs.
In a vital display of sportsmanship, players like Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed, and Fakhar Zaman not only signed autographs but also took time to interact with fans, a gesture that left a lasting impression.
On the other hand, Indian players also arrived at the ICC Academy earlier in the day for training but did not interact or sign autographs, even with their own fans.
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“What Indian players did is wrong. A handshake is a common courtesy. It shows respect towards players, regardless of nationality,” said an Indian fan in an exclusive chat with Times of Karachi.
Another fan, who received autographs from multiple Pakistani players, expressed disappointment in his home team, he said “Politics should not interfere with cricket. Players should respect each other. Keep it light, do handshakes.”
This moment emerged in contrast to the recent handshake controversy that erupted following the group-stage match between the two sides on September 14.
The Indian team, after winning the match, avoided handshakes with their Pakistani counterparts, a move that drew criticism from various quarters and led to diplomatic friction between the cricket boards.
As both teams gear up for their high-voltage clash on September 21, it seems the spirit of cricket – briefly buried in controversy – is being kept alive by the fans and the goodwill gestures of Pakistani players.
