Controversy rages over pre-match 'handshakes', says legendary Indian bowler – in the spirit of the game…

Former India fast bowler Venkatesh Prasad said today that decisions like handshakes and other on-field etiquette are purely internal to the team and should not be influenced by the broader reality of India's clear advantage over Pakistan in contemporary cricket. Speaking to reporters here ahead of the Super 4 match of the Asia Cup 2025 between the arch-rivals in Dubai, Prasad addressed the recent debate surrounding handshakes and on-field gestures.

He said, "Whether a team wants to shake hands or not is entirely their decision. If someone is playing honestly, you play according to the spirit of the game." He added, "But these are internal decisions, and I don't want to comment too much on it from the outside."

Prasad reflected on the changing context of India-Pakistan cricket and said that such gestures, while symbolic, are minor compared to the wider differences between the teams. He said, "India is on a completely different level now. There is a huge difference between the two teams now compared to before."

He stressed that Indian players now operate with complete clarity in every aspect of the game. Referring to the confidence and preparedness of the current Indian team, he said, "India has clarity in every aspect – there is no doubt in their mind. India will definitely win the match."

He cautioned that focusing too much on gestures or minor controversies could distract from India's professionalism and continued dominance in world cricket. According to Prasad, while the spirit of the game should guide conduct, the focus should be on performance and team strategy rather than symbolic handshakes.

With India facing Pakistan in Dubai today, Prasad's comments are a reminder of the internal team dynamics that influence such decisions, as well as a clear indication of India's current advantage over its long-time rival.