Speaking to mediapersons here ahead of the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four clash between the arch-rivals in Dubai, Prasad addressed recent debates surrounding handshakes and on-field gestures.
“Whether a team wants to shake hands or not is entirely their call. If someone is playing with sincerity, then you go with the spirit of the game,” he explained.
He added, “But these are internal decisions, and I don’t want to comment too much from outside.”
Prasad reflected on the changing context of India-Pakistan cricket, noting that such gestures, while symbolic, are minor compared to the broader differences between the teams. “India are on a completely different level now. There is a huge gap between the two sides, unlike in the past,” he said.
He emphasised that Indian players now operate with complete clarity in every aspect of the game. “India have clarity in every aspect — there’s no doubt in their minds. India will definitely win the match,” he noted, highlighting the confidence and preparedness of the current Indian team.
He cautioned that overemphasis on gestures or minor controversies risks distracting from India’s professionalism and sustained dominance in world cricket. According to Prasad, while the spirit of the game should guide conduct, the focus must remain on performance and team strategy rather than symbolic handshakes.
With India facing Pakistan on Sunday in Dubai, Prasad’s remarks combined a reminder of the internal team dynamics that guide such decisions with a clear statement on India’s current strength over its long-time rival.
