Spirit of sportsmanship returns with Pakistan and India hokey match

What could not happen in the UAE or Sri Lanka finally took place in Malaysia. Pakistan and India’s junior hockey teams set aside political tensions and shook hands before their Sultan of Johor Cup clash, winning hearts across the sporting world.

The symbolic gesture came ahead of the much-anticipated Pakistan–India Junior Hockey match, which ended in an exciting 3–3 draw. But beyond the scoreline, it was the display of sportsmanship that stood out, as players from both sides exchanged handshakes in keeping with the true spirit of the game.

Recent months had seen rising political hostility between the two neighbors spill over into sports.

During the Asia Cup in the UAE, Indian cricketers notably avoided shaking hands with their Pakistani counterparts in all three encounters – the group match, the Super Four, and the final – an unprecedented act in cricket’s 150-year history.

The move drew widespread criticism from international sporting circles and even from voices within India.

That spiritless trend was repeated at the Women’s World Cup in Colombo, where Indian players again refused post-match handshakes, further fueling disappointment among fans.

However, in Johor Bahru, the junior hockey teams restored dignity to the sport, reminding the world that sportsmanship transcends politics.

Before the match began, both sides lined up and, as per hockey tradition, greeted each other with open palms, setting a positive example for athletes everywhere.

The match itself was as thrilling as expected: for Pakistan, Sufyan Khan scored twice while captain Hanan Shahid added one goal, ensuring a hard-fought 3–3 draw against their Indian rivals. At the end, both nations players again shook hands. 

While neither team secured victory on the scoreboard, both emerged winners in spirit — showing that even amid political divides, respect, unity, and the love of sport can prevail.