Shoaib Akhtar Speech on Handshake: What was supposed to be a straightforward India‑Pakistan cricket showdown in Dubai turned into much more than just a match. India’s 7‑wicket victory, dominant though it was, became overshadowed by a gesture or the absence of one – that has ignited debate about cricket, politics, and dignity.
A Victory, But Also a Silent Statement
India chased down Pakistan’s total of 127 in just 15.5 overs, with captain Suryakumar Yadav holding firm with an unbeaten 47 (37 balls). Spinner Kuldeep Yadav was outstanding, tearing through Pakistan’s batting with 3/18. On paper, it was a classic clash of skill and composure.
Still, what people are talking about isn’t just the play – it’s what happened after.
Shoaib Akhtar’s Heartfelt Plea
Even among Pakistan’s ranks, there was disappointment and a desire to steer things back to what cricket means.
Former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar, speaking on national television, couldn’t hide his sadness:
“I’m speechless. It is disheartening to see and I don’t know what to say. Hats off to India. Just don’t make things political. Cricket match hain isko political mat banao. Hum ne acchi statement di hai aapkee liye.”
He urged the teams to rise above the tension:
“Hum bohut kuchh bol sakte hai. Hoti rehte hain ladayi jhagre, ghar me bhi ho jaati hain. Forget it, move on. It is the game of cricket, shake your hands, show your grace.”
Akhtar supported Salman Ali Agha’s decision to skip the post‑match presentation ceremony in protest:
“Thik kiya Salman Ali Agha ne, wo nahi gaya post match mein, good.”
Shoaib Akhtar crying over the handshake saga 😂 Same guy was chilling with Asim Munir & Afridi months back. Well done Surya – strike as deep as Nur Khan Air Base! 🔥🇮🇳 #INDvsPAK #IndianCricket #IndiaVsPakistan #aisacup2025 #indvspak2025 https://t.co/6O4XkugN8U pic.twitter.com/t9V8pCk0U8
— Gaurav (@k_gauravs) September 15, 2025
What’s Driving This Silence
Central to the controversy is the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025, where 26 tourists were killed – a tragedy that left a wound in many hearts. Following that, India launched Operation Sindoor, a military response aimed at terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan‑controlled Kashmir.
Many in India saw Sunday’s match not just as cricket but as laden with symbolism of sorrow, response, and national sentiment. Rumours that Gambhir, India’s coach, advised the no‑handshake approach to show solidarity with victims lent another layer of complexity to what should have been a simple act of sportsmanship.
Also Read: Sanjay Raut Drops Bombshell on IND-PAK Clash – Says ‘India vs Pakistan match was fixed’
