Cricket–No handshake as Pakistan elect to field against India

The Pakistan cricket team made the strategic decision to field first against their arch-rivals India during the highly anticipated Asia Cup match in Dubai on September 2, 2023, with no traditional handshake between the teams before the match due to ongoing political tensions between the two neighboring nations. The absence of the customary sportsmanship gesture between players from both sides was immediately noticed by spectators and commentators, highlighting the deep-rooted geopolitical issues that often overshadow the sporting contest. Pakistan captain Babar Azam confirmed the team's choice to field first after winning the toss, explaining that the decision was purely based on pitch conditions and team strategy rather than the diplomatic implications. The match, part of the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup, carried significant weight as both teams were vying for a spot in the final, with the victor gaining crucial momentum in the tournament. Security was exceptionally tight at the venue, with over 3,000 police personnel deployed to ensure the match passed off peacefully amidst heightened emotions from fans on both sides.