A highly anticipated fixture is set to unfold in the British capital as the International Hockey Federation’s Pro League brings India and Pakistan together on June 23, 2026. The match, part of the league’s closing stages, marks the first senior men’s encounter between the rivals since they met in the 2024 Asian Champions Trophy.
India entered that tournament with a 2‑1 victory over its arch‑rival, a result that added extra spice to the forthcoming London leg. While the cricket world has recently witnessed players skipping pre‑match handshakes, the hockey community has so far continued to observe the customary gesture, and there is no indication that either side plans to deviate.
A Handshake Across Borders
Hockey India has reiterated its commitment to the principles outlined in the Olympic Charter and the FIH’s code of conduct, which champion good sportsmanship. The governing body stressed that it will not block traditional handshake rituals, a stance reinforced by the behavior of junior squads at the Sultan of Johor Cup in Malaysia, where Indian and Pakistani players exchanged greetings after competition.
Bhola Nath Singh, secretary general of Hockey India, confirmed that no directives have been issued to prevent handshakes with opponents, underscoring that the organization respects international norms and expects its athletes to do the same.
The London leg will feature two fixtures, each forming part of the final chapter of the 2025‑26 Pro League season. Both games are scheduled to take place on the same venue, offering fans a rare double‑header that could further intensify the historic rivalry.
Beyond the on‑field contest, the encounter serves as a litmus test for how emerging sports navigate diplomatic sensitivities while upholding universal values of respect and camaraderie. Observers will watch closely to see whether the handshake tradition endures when the two neighbours meet under the lights of London.