Video Highlights Controversial Behavior
During the 2025 Asia Cup, the Indian cricket team came under global scrutiny for reportedly refusing to shake hands with Pakistani players. The incident prompted a tongue-in-cheek response from Australian cricketers and support staff, who released a satirical video that quickly went viral on social media.
The video, originally published on Australia’s popular sports website Kayo Sports, featured players such as Josh Hazlewood, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Marsh, and other team members discussing and joking about the Indian team’s no-handshake approach. In one clip, an Australian coach mockingly says, They don’t shake hands at all. How are we supposed to deal with them?
Hazlewood responds with a laugh, joking, What about a shooting-style handshake?
The humorous tone of the video highlighted the absurdity of the situation while sparking widespread discussion online.
Social Media Reactions
Although the video was removed from the website shortly after its release, it had already gone viral. Reactions were mixed: some users found it lighthearted and funny, while others criticized the Indian team for what they perceived as unfriendly behavior.
A social media user noted that the Australians directly mocked India’s reluctance to shake hands, turning the incident into a public conversation. Meanwhile, some Indian fans defended the team, emphasizing the importance of maintaining traditional greeting practices like the Namaskar.
Pakistani cricket fan Mohammad Zeeshan Awan commented, Australians are brilliant at poking fun at the Indians.
The debate highlights how sportsmanship and cultural practices intersect, especially in high-profile tournaments.
Context: India vs. Australia Series Ahead
The controversy comes ahead of India’s scheduled tour of Australia, beginning October 19, 2025, where the two teams will compete in a three-match One Day International (ODI) series. Fans and analysts are now curious to see whether India will continue its no-handshake policy or shift focus solely to on-field performance.
Historically, India has maintained certain cultural traditions, such as the Namaskar greeting, instead of Western-style handshakes. However, critics argue that sporting events require gestures of goodwill to promote mutual respect among teams.
The Broader Significance
This incident underscores the increasing scrutiny of player behavior in international cricket. In recent years, the sport has emphasized sportsmanship and diplomacy, with gestures like handshakes serving as symbolic acts of camaraderie and professionalism.
The viral Australian video also illustrates how humor is increasingly used in sports media to address controversies. While some may see it as playful banter, others view it as a subtle critique of cultural rigidity or perceived arrogance on the field.
Looking Ahead
As the Asia Cup controversy fades, attention will shift to the India-Australia ODI series. Observers will watch closely to see whether India adapts its behavior in a foreign setting or maintains its established customs.
Meanwhile, the viral video demonstrates the global reach of cricket and how moments off the field can generate as much conversation as performances on it. In an era of instant social media reactions, even a brief gesture—or the lack of one—can become a topic of international debate.
