Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has come forward in support of Suryakumar Yadav amid the ongoing debate over the handshake row with Pakistan during the Asia Cup 2025. After India’s convincing seven-wicket win in Dubai, the Indian skipper chose not to participate in the customary handshake.
Explaining his stance, Ganguly told NDTV that the decision was entirely Suryakumar’s and should not be questioned. “It’s Suryakumar’s call. He is the captain, and as a leader he has the right to decide how to express himself. That must be respected,” Ganguly said.
The former BCCI president stressed that such decisions are personal and linked to circumstances that go beyond the cricket field. By backing Suryakumar, Ganguly highlighted the autonomy a captain must have when leading the national side.
Pakistan’s Absence Adds to the Controversy
The handshake incident was not the only point of contention. The match itself was played amid tensions, and Pakistan’s captain Salman Agha did not attend the post-match presentation ceremony, adding fuel to the debate. There was also speculation about whether Pakistan’s players were deliberately avoiding customary interactions.
Ganguly, however, maintained that India’s focus should remain on the game rather than such distractions. “The match was scheduled, and the players had to play. Beyond that, it is up to the captain whether he wants to shake hands or not,” he explained. His remarks underlined that cricketing responsibilities had been fulfilled, and any symbolic gestures were secondary to the team’s performance on the field.
Suryakumar’s Tribute to Terror Victims
Suryakumar Yadav later clarified the reason behind his refusal to shake hands. He said it was a conscious decision in memory of the victims of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, where 26 tourists lost their lives. Expressing his emotions, the India captain stated: “This win is for the families of those who lost their lives. I dedicate this victory to them and salute the courage of our armed forces.”
By connecting India’s triumph to the tragic incident, Suryakumar turned the cricketing gesture into a symbol of solidarity. His message resonated with fans who saw it as a reminder that the sport does not exist in isolation but often reflects the nation’s collective emotions.
Ganguly’s endorsement ensured that the skipper’s move was not viewed as defiance but as a heartfelt tribute. It also reinforced the idea that the role of a captain is not just about tactics and leadership on the field but also about representing the nation’s sentiments with dignity.
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