A video featuring former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan warmly greeting Pakistani cricketers has gone viral on social media, triggering widespread discussion given the strained relations between India and Pakistan both on and off the cricket field.
In the viral clip, recorded after a match in a private cricket league, Pathan is seen shaking hands and embracing Pakistani players, including veteran cricketer Shoaib Malik. The moment stands in sharp contrast to the tense atmosphere that has surrounded India–Pakistan cricket encounters in recent times.
What the Video Shows
The footage captures players from both sides exchanging handshakes and high-fives after the match. The embrace between Irfan Pathan and Shoaib Malik has particularly caught public attention, with many users describing it as unexpected amid ongoing diplomatic and sporting friction between the two countries.
Backdrop of Strained Relations
Relations between India and Pakistan have remained tense following recent terror attacks, including the incident in Pahalgam, after which the Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor, targeting terrorist infrastructure across the border. The impact of these developments has also been visible in cricketing interactions.
In recent tournaments, Indian players have avoided handshakes and on-field interactions with Pakistani counterparts. During last year’s Asia Cup, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav had refused to shake hands with Pakistan’s Salman Ali Agha. The tension continued through the Super Four stage and the final, which India eventually won. Notably, the Indian team also declined to receive the trophy personally from PCB Chairman and ACC President Mohsin Naqvi.
Similar Incidents Across Formats
Such moments have not been limited to men’s cricket. Similar cold exchanges were reported during women’s World Cup matches, as well as in other ACC events like the Hong Kong Super Sixes. The situation escalated further when India opted out of playing Pakistan in the second season of the World Championship of Legends, refusing to face them in both the group stage and semi-final.
Mixed Reactions Online
The viral video has divided opinion on social media. While some users criticised Pathan for the gesture, others pointed out that the interaction took place in a non-official, private league, arguing that sportsmanship should remain separate from political tensions.
Neither Irfan Pathan nor the league organisers have issued an official statement on the matter so far.
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