- By Himanshu Badola
- Sat, 24 Jan 2026 11:04 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
In an interesting turn of events, the former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan and Pakistan's legendary cricketer Shoaib Malik were seen sharing a small side-hug after an exhibition match in Saudi Arabia on Thursday. The instance has sparked debate amid the political and cricketing tensions between the neighbouring countries.
While batting first, Pakistan put up 56 for 4 in four overs on the back of Shoaib Malik’s 34 and a 16-run contribution from Imran Nazir. In reply, India could reach only 51 for 4, finishing five runs short of the target. Irfan Pathan and Stuart Binny were on strike when the match ended, and the duo cordially shook hands and shared pleasantries with the Pakistani players.
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Watch the viral video here:
The cricketing relations between India and Pakistan have reached their lowest point amid the rising political tensions after an unfortunate sequence of events that took place last year. Following the tragic Pahalgam Terror Attack and Operation Sindoor, the tension spilt directly onto the pitch during the Asia Cup.
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The Indian team refused to shake hands with the Pakistani players during all of the three matches between the arch-rivals, including in the final. A calculated stance resonated across every level of the sport, from the senior men’s and women’s teams down to the Under-19 leagues. The concerning atmosphere escalated with a few Pakistani players making provocative gestures during the Asia Cup matches. However, the Men in Blue ended up defeating Pakistan in the final to lift the Asia Cup title.
This hostility reached its absurd peak during the trophy presentation after India's title win, involving PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. India's refusal to receive the title from Naqvi led to a chaotic scene where the physical trophy was allegedly removed from the podium prematurely, a fiasco that left the tournament without a formal closing.
Both teams will face off during the T20 World Cup 2026, which kicks off on February 7. The much-awaited clash is scheduled to be played at the R.Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Sunday, February 15.