Indian team captain Suryakumar Yadav discussed the team’s decision to avoid shaking hands with Pakistan after the match. This unusual behavior was evident even during the coin toss, where handshakes were omitted. The subsequent retreat to the changing room by Yadav and Shivam Dube immediately after the match generated further discussion. Yadav explained that this was a team decision, prioritizing factors beyond ‘sportsman spirit.’
He explained, “We took a call as we came here to only play. We gave a proper reply. We are aligned with BCCI and the government. I feel a few things in life are ahead of sportsman spirit. I have told it at the presentation as well. We stand with all the victims of the Pahalagam terror attack.” He concluded, “We stand with their families also and express our solidarity. As I said, we dedicate this win to our brave armed forces who took part in Operation Sindoor. As they continue to inspire us all, we will try our best to, whenever given the opportunity, inspire them as well if possible.”