India vs Pakistan (Getty Images)

The Pakistan Hockey Federation has instructed its national team players to avoid confrontations with Indian players during their Sultan of Johor Cup match in Johar Bahru, Malaysia on Tuesday.Following ‘Operation Sindoor’, Indian cricket players refrained from shaking hands with Pakistani players during recent Asia Cup matches, including the final. Pakistan responded by filing protests with both the Asian Cricket Council and ICC.Similar behaviour is anticipated from the Indian junior men’s hockey team in their upcoming match against Pakistan.A PHF senior official informed that players have been prepared for the possibility of no handshakes from the Indian team.“The players have been told that if the Indian players don’t shake hands before or after the match, just ignore the gesture and move on. They have also been told to avoid any emotional tussles or signs during the game,” he said.In the tournament, Pakistan secured a strong start with a 7-1 victory against Malaysia but later lost to Great Britain.Pakistan had earlier opted out of participating in the men’s Asia Cup held in Rajgir, Bihar, India, in August, with Bangladesh taking their place.The federation has emphasized that players should maintain their focus solely on the matches.