‘We didn’t see them as enemies…’: India hockey player makes shocking statement after shaking hands with Pakistan players in Sultan of Johor Cup
New Delhi: Recently, during the Asia Cup, when the Indian team led by Suryakumar Yadav refused to shake hands with the Pakistani players on the cricket field, it was expected that other sports would follow suit. However, the picture was completely different in mid-October at the Sultan of Johor Cup when the Indian men’s junior hockey team played against Pakistan. After the match, both teams not only shook hands but also displayed true sportsmanship.
Players’ Perspective: No Enmity, Just the Game
Midfielder Roshan Kujur, in a conversation with the Times of India, said, “Nobody stopped us. We all play with hard work and dedication, and on the field, we see the Pakistani players not as enemies but as competitors. That’s why we shook hands. They are also players like us.”
His statement proved that the purpose of sports is not enmity, but mutual respect and competition.
The Pressure and Excitement of an India-Pakistan Match
Team defender Sunil P.B. said, “There is always a winning mentality against Pakistan. Losing is not an option. But this time the match ended in a 3-3 draw, yet it was a fantastic match.”
Roshan Kujur added, “The name India-Pakistan match itself brings pressure. But we tried to handle this pressure and focus on our game.”
India’s Performance at the Sultan of Johor Cup
India suffered a 1-2 defeat against Australia in a tough match, but the team performed better than last time and won the silver medal. This result shows that the Indian junior team is not only becoming technically stronger but also mentally more mature.
Story Highlights
- The India-Pakistan match at the Sultan of Johor Cup ended in a 3-3 draw.
- The players displayed sportsmanship by shaking hands after the match.
- Roshan Kujur said, “We consider them players, not enemies.”
- India won the silver medal in the tournament, performing better than last time.