New Delhi:A brief meeting between former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh and Pakistani fast bowler Shahnawaz Dahani during the Abu Dhabi T10 League on Wednesday, November 19, caught everyone’s attention.
Amid political tensions and a hostile atmosphere on the field, the two players’ handshake was a rare sight. The incident occurred after Harbhajan’s team, the Aspin Stallions, defeated the Ajman Titans by four runs at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium.
A glimpse of friendship in a tense atmosphere
Since the Pahalgam attack, Indian and Pakistani players have avoided post-match handshakes in many tournaments. This distance was visible at the men’s, women’s, and junior levels. In such a climate, Harbhajan and Dahani‘s smiling handshake was considered a significant positive.
Harbhajan’s previous tough stance and Team India’s unity
Harbhajan has previously taken a strong stance against Pakistan. In mid-2025, he, along with Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, and the Pathan brothers, withdrew from a WorldChampionship of Legends match. Citing “national sentiment,” he took this step, forcing the India Champions to forfeit their semifinal match.
Dahani’s post-match initiative and Harbhajan’s reaction
Dahani, who had taken a brilliant 2/10 in the league match, approached Harbhajan after the last ball. Aspin Stallions captain Harbhajan also politely shook hands and exchanged a few words. Harbhajan had bowled an economical over in the match and was run out for one run.
Mixed reactions on social media
Harbhajan’s move received sharp reactions on social media. However, lighthearted greetings were also seen between players during the Women’s Blind T20 World Cup, where the teams were also traveling together. In such a situation, the meeting between Harbhajan and Dahani is being considered a small positive initiative amid the tension.
Story Highlights
- Harbhajan Singh shook hands with Pakistan’s Shahnawaz Dahani in the Abu Dhabi T10 League.
- This rare sight comes amid the tradition of players avoiding handshakes in the tense India-Pakistan environment.
- Many Indian legends, including Harbhajan, had refused to play the match against Pakistan in 2025.
- Dahani’s brilliant bowling and the friendly conversation between the two players after the match drew everyone’s attention.