Kapil Dev on India-Pakistan Handshake Controversy: Focus Should Be on Cricket

 

The handshake controversy involving Indian and Pakistani captains during the Asia Cup 2025 Group A clash has sparked widespread debate, but former India skipper Kapil Dev believes the matter is being blown out of proportion.

 

Speaking to ANI, Kapil Dev said that the priority should remain on cricket instead of highlighting such minor issues. “These are small things. Players should focus on the game. If someone chooses not to shake hands, it should not become a big controversy. It is a personal choice whether to shake hands or hug,” he remarked. He also added that Pakistan’s poor performance on the field was more concerning, noting that the team “needs to work on their cricket.”

 

The incident occurred on September 14 when Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav, along with Shivam Dube, walked off without shaking hands with the Pakistani side. Suryakumar even refrained from greeting Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha after the toss. Later, he dedicated India’s victory to the armed forces and expressed solidarity with the victims of the Pahalgam tragedy.

 

In that match, India restricted Pakistan to 127/9, before Suryakumar Yadav and Abhishek Sharma’s batting ensured a comfortable seven-wicket win.

 

Kapil Dev also praised the Indian team’s consistent success over the years, saying, “For the past two decades, India has been performing exceptionally well, especially in ICC tournaments. Our cricket structure is very strong, and I am confident India will go on to win the Asia Cup 2025.”