India extend no‑handshake stance in Hong Kong Sixes clash
The India–Pakistan meeting at the Hong Kong Sixes 2025 brought familiar intensity, but what followed after the final ball drew just as much attention as the match itself. India secured a narrow two‑run victory via the DLS method, yet there was no handshake between the two teams at the conclusion — continuing a stance seen earlier during the Asia Cup and later at the Women’s ODI World Cup.
According to Hindustan Times, the players from both sides remained in their respective areas once the match ended, with no exchange of post‑match pleasantries. A source who was aware of the situation explained the reasoning behind maintaining the protocol: “There was no chance of a handshake; we will follow whatever has been the norm,” the source confirmed to Hindustan Times.
India’s no‑handshake stance was first observed during the Asia Cup 2025, which unfolded in a politically charged atmosphere following the Pahalgam attack. India and Pakistan faced each other three times during that tournament, with each encounter concluding without customary greetings — a move that drew complaints from the Pakistan Cricket Board and led to match referee scrutiny. The pattern then carried into the Women’s World Cup before reappearing in Hong Kong.
India edge Pakistan in rain‑curtailed encounter
In the Hong Kong Sixes clash, India posted 86/4 in six overs, powered by Robin Uthappa’s 28 off 11 balls and contributions from Bharat Chipli and captain Dinesh Karthik. Pakistan’s chase stood at 41/1 after three overs when rain halted play. Based on the DLS calculation, India were declared winners by two runs.
The high‑paced six‑a‑side format, known for its aggressive stroke play and condensed match duration, once again delivered a tense contest between the two long‑standing rivals.
Pakistan rebound to win Hong Kong Sixes 2025 title
While India took the result in the head‑to‑head meeting, Pakistan went on to complete a strong tournament campaign. They defeated South Africa in the quarter‑finals, edged Australia by a single run in the semi‑finals, and overpowered Kuwait by 43 runs on Sunday, November 9, in the final to secure the Hong Kong Sixes title.
Batting first in the final, Pakistan amassed 135/3 in six overs, driven by Abdul Samad’s 42 off 13 balls and a blistering 52 off just 11 deliveries from captain Abbas Afridi. Kuwait fought back with a spirited start but were eventually bowled out for 92 in 5.1 overs, with Maaz Sadaqat claiming three wickets to seal Pakistan’s sixth Hong Kong Sixes championship.
Kuwait’s run to the title clash featured wins against India, Afghanistan, and England, while India’s campaign faltered after their opening win, suffering defeats to Kuwait, UAE, Nepal and Sri Lanka in subsequent matches.
