India and Pakistan faced each other in the ongoing Sultan of Johor Hockey Cup in Malaysia on October 14. Before the match, players from both teams shook hands and high-fived, and their pictures are rapidly going viral on social media.
Sports News: The highly anticipated match between India and Pakistan in the Sultan of Johor Cup Hockey Tournament on Monday was full of excitement. Both teams played with full strength against each other, but the result was a draw. The match ended with a score of 3-3. In this high-voltage encounter, while the players' passion on the field was remarkable, an incident before the match also garnered significant attention. Players from both nations demonstrated sportsmanship by high-fiving each other instead of the traditional handshake.
A Unique High-Five Moment Before the Match
Whenever India and Pakistan compete, the atmosphere inherently becomes special. But this time, a different scene unfolded before the match began. Players from both teams entered the field, lined up, and instead of shaking hands, they high-fived each other. These pictures quickly went viral on social media.
This incident was particularly significant because the "handshake controversy" between India and Pakistan had recently been a topic of discussion. Indian players had not shaken hands with the Pakistani team during the Asia Cup Cricket tournament, after which the issue remained in the headlines.
Pakistan Hockey Federation Had Issued Instructions
According to sources, the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) had already instructed its players before the match not to engage in any debate or controversy if the Indian team did not shake hands. A senior PHF official stated, “Players were given clear instructions to focus solely on the game and avoid emotional reactions. If Indian players refuse to shake hands, they should simply move on respectfully.”
Against this backdrop, when both teams stepped onto the field, the players demonstrated sportsmanship through high-fives instead of a “no handshake” approach, which fostered a cordial atmosphere.
Match Thrills: India's Remarkable Comeback
The match began with Pakistan dominating. In the first half, the Pakistani team maintained b control and secured a 1-0 lead by halftime. The Indian team played defensively in the first half and failed to convert scoring opportunities. In the second half, Pakistan extended its lead to 2-0. However, the Indian team then staged an incredible comeback. Arrai Jeet Singh scored India's first goal with a superb field goal. Following this, Saurabh Anand Kushwaha scored the second goal, leveling the score at 2-2.
India had also taken a 3-2 lead, but in the final five minutes, Pakistan's Sufyan Khan launched a swift attack, scoring a goal and equalizing the score at 3-3. Thus, the match ended in a draw. On the field, this match displayed both fierce competition and b sportsmanship. Players from both teams were seen appreciating each other on several occasions. Even after the match, the players again high-fived and greeted each other.
