Lahore (Pakistan): In a rare display of sportsmanship, Pakistani teams were greeted with handshakes and high fives twice in two days, following victories in hockey and cricket. The gestures came amid ongoing discussions about sportsmanship and cross-border cricket tensions.
On the hockey field, the Indian men’s junior hockey team extended handshakes and high fives to their Pakistani counterparts after a competitive match, marking a break from the usual reserved interactions between the two sides. Less than 24 hours later, the Pakistan cricket team delivered an emphatic 93-run victory over South Africa in the first Test at Lahore, ending the Proteas’ 10-match winning streak, and were again met with handshakes and congratulations.
Cricket victory highlights
Pakistan’s triumph over South Africa was defined by stellar bowling performances and significant contributions with the bat. Shaheen Afridi led the bowling attack, taking 4 wickets for 33 runs, while left-arm spinner Noman Ali claimed 4/79 in the first innings and a remarkable 6/112 in the second innings, dismantling the Proteas’ middle order.
Earlier, Tony de Zorzi scored his maiden Test century, supported by Ryan Rickleton’s fifty, helping South Africa reach 269 in their first innings. However, it was insufficient to surpass Pakistan’s first-innings total of 378, with contributions from Salman Agha and Imam Ul Haq (93 each) and crucial half-centuries from Shan Masood and Mohammad Rizwan. Pakistan’s second innings faltered at 167, but Noman Ali’s bowling ensured a comprehensive victory.
Sportsmanship debate reignited
Despite the celebratory moments, lingering tensions from last month’s Asia Cup 2025 were brought back into conversation by commentators Ramiz Raja and Aamer Sohail. During the Asia Cup, Indian players had reportedly refused to shake hands with Pakistani counterparts on three occasions, even after India’s five-wicket win in Dubai to claim their ninth title.
Commentator Aamer Sohail remarked, “Good to see both teams shaking hands. It’s getting out of fashion these days,” while Ramiz Raja added, “It’s getting out of hand,” emphasising the importance of gentlemanly behaviour and fairness in cricket. Both hinted at the need to restore traditional sporting etiquette and maintain respect on the field.
Reactions and significance
The handshakes and high fives have been widely shared on social media, prompting discussions about sportsmanship and diplomacy in sport, particularly between India and Pakistan. Analysts suggest that such gestures are vital in softening cross-border tensions and promoting mutual respect in competitive environments.
While Pakistan celebrated two back-to-back wins, the matches also showcased the high calibre of players on both sides. In cricket, the victory over South Africa demonstrates Pakistan’s growing strength in home conditions, with both batting and bowling units performing cohesively. In hockey, the gesture from the Indian junior team reflects evolving attitudes in junior-level sports, where rivalry is balanced with respect.
Looking ahead
Pakistan’s cricket team will continue to face South Africa in the remaining Tests and limited-overs series, aiming to build momentum from the first Test win. Analysts note that sportsmanship on the field will remain a critical talking point, as teams navigate the balance between competitive intensity and traditional etiquette.
These gestures, both in cricket and hockey, underline the importance of respectful interactions, even amid intense sporting rivalries. Observers hope that such displays will become the norm, fostering a healthy competitive spirit and encouraging players to uphold the values of the game.