Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has found himself at the centre of an unexpected controversy after shaking hands with Pakistan pacer Shahnawaz Dahani following Match 3 of the Abu Dhabi T10 League 2025. Harbhajan, who is leading the Aspin Stallions in the ninth edition of the tournament, exchanged pleasantries with Dahani during the customary post-match greetings. This gesture sparked heated debate online.

The criticism stems from the ongoing political tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam attack earlier this year. Since that incident, both the Indian men’s and women’s teams have consciously avoided handshakes with Pakistan players across tournaments. The stance has become symbolic, reflecting the firm positions Indian athletes take on and off the field.

Adding to the context, Harbhajan Singh himself had previously refused to play against Pakistan in the World Championship of Legends. Along with several former Indian cricketers, he had declared that “blood and sweat cannot co-exist,” leading to India conceding a walkover in the semi-final and Pakistan advancing to the final.

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The trend began during the Asia Cup, where Suryakumar Yadav’s side chose not to participate in handshakes after any of their three matches against Pakistan. The same approach was followed at the Women’s World Cup and the Rising Stars Asia Cup clash between India A and Pakistan Shaheens.

Harbhajan Singh handshake with Shahnawaz Dahani. Ab kahan gai patriotism indians ki. #AbuDhabiT10 @iihtishamm pic.twitter.com/4ZFfgP2ld3

— Ather (@Atherr_official) November 19, 2025

In the T10 fixture at the Zayed Cricket Stadium on November 19, Harbhajan’s Aspin Stallions narrowly lost by four runs. Chasing 114, they managed 110/7 in their 10 overs. Harbhajan Singh bowled a single over, conceding just eight runs, but his night ended with a run-out for 1 off 1 on the final ball.

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Dahani, meanwhile, was the standout performer. He delivered a match-winning spell of 2/10 in his two overs, dismissing Saif Hassan and Tymal Mills, and deservedly walked away with the Player of the Match award.