NEW DELHI: Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has joined the debate over the handshake controversy during the India-Pakistan Asia Cup clash. Indian players refrained from shaking hands with their Pakistani counterparts both before and after the match, triggering widespread criticism.

Pathan emphasised that such actions are never taken independently, but in coordination with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Indian government.

"The cricketers, BCCI and the government of India are aligned. Everything runs in the alignment of the situation and it is also an individual decision," Pathan told ANI.

Pathan highlighted that despite the ongoing handshake controversy, the Indian team's performance on the field remains strong and focused.

"Indian team is playing very well. All controversy is on one hand and the way the Indian team is moving ahead is on the other," he added.

India captain Suryakumar Yadav had justified his team's stand of not shaking hands after the seven-wicket win on Sunday, stating that it was meant to show solidarity with the families of Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people were gunned down by Pakistan-backed terrorists.

"I feel few things, few things in life are ahead of the sportsman's spirit also. We stand with victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and dedicate this victory to our Armed Forces," Surya said.

It is understood that 'no handshake' is a policy decision that would be maintained throughout the course of the Asia Cup if the teams happen to meet again in a Super Four Clash next Sunday followed by a potential meeting in the final on September 28.