Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh has apologized. This followed a handshake controversy at the Abu Dhabi T10 League. The incident occurred during a match between Northern Warriors and Aspin Stallions.
Harbhajan shook hands with Pakistan’s star bowler, Shahnawaz Dahani. Dahani had just bowled an outstanding final over. He defended eight runs. His side won a narrow four-run match over the Stallions. Shahnawaz Dahani bowled the decisive over. Stallions needed only eight runs from 115. Dahani delivered the ball well. He picked up two wickets. He gave away only three runs. Both teams shook hands after the game. Stallions skipper Harbhajan Singh was included. This customary gesture sparked immediate controversy.
Harbhajan Singh then issued a public apology. He made an insensitive remark and claimed he mistook Dahani for “ground staff.” He said, “I didn’t know that he was a Pakistani cricketer.” This was his reason for the handshake. The statement generated significant backlash online.
This incident happens amid strained India-Pakistan relations. Tensions followed the Pahalgam attack in May. India’s teams have since avoided customary handshakes with Pakistani players. Harbhajan was also part of a squad that boycotted two matches against Pakistan recently. He was playing for the India Legends squad. This was during the World Championship of Legends (WCL).
India’s refusal to shake hands is a recurring pattern. It started during the senior Asia Cup. The Asia Cup 2025 saw other drama. India refused to accept the trophy directly. They also did not attend the closing ceremony. The trophy is still with the ACC. India’s refusal continued at the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025. The latest instance was in Doha. Captains from both India A and Pakistan Shaheens skipped the customary toss handshake. Jitesh Sharma and Irfan Niazi avoided the contact.
Also read: Pakistan Beats Sri Lanka to Reach Rising Star Asia Cup Final
