Bhubaneswar: As tensions spill from cricket to hockey, the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has advised its national team to stay composed in their upcoming Sultan of Johor Cup match against India in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. Players have been told to avoid confrontations and focus solely on their game.
The guidance comes in the wake of ‘Operation Sindoor,’ when the Indian cricket team reportedly refrained from shaking hands with Pakistan players during the Asia Cup, sparking a formal protest from Pakistan with both the Asian Cricket Council and ICC.
A senior PHF official explained: “The players have been told that if the Indian players don’t shake hands before or after the match, just ignore it and move on. They should avoid any emotional tussles or signs during the game.”
Pakistan, who lost their second match to Great Britain after opening with a commanding 7-1 victory over hosts Malaysia, are expected to face the same no-handshake scenario from the Indian junior men’s hockey team. This precautionary measure ensures the players remain focused amid the politically charged atmosphere.
The situation underscores how off-field tensions continue to influence sporting encounters between the two nations, with Pakistan having skipped the men’s Asia Cup in India in August, citing security concerns.
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