India‘s men’s cricket team capped their Asian Games 2026 campaign with a memorable gold medal after defeating arch-rivals Pakistan by 19 runs in a thrilling final on October 3. While the result itself sparked celebrations among Indian players and supporters, a heartwarming moment during the post-match ceremony involving young batter Vaibhav Suryavanshi and ICC Chairman Jay Shah quickly caught attention.
The 15-year-old Suryavanshi, who was part of India’s gold-medal-winning squad, displayed a traditional gesture of respect when he met Shah during the medal ceremony. The moment added an emotional touch to an already special occasion for the youngster and the Indian team.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s respectful gesture steals the spotlight
The incident took place during the post-match medal ceremony following India’s victory over Pakistan. As Shah congratulated members of the Indian squad, he approached Suryavanshi, who responded by bending down and touching Shah’s feet. The gesture immediately stood out amid the celebrations. Touching the feet of an elder or respected figure is a traditional Indian way of expressing respect, and Suryavanshi’s actions reflected the humility often associated with the custom.
The young batter had already become part of a historic occasion by helping India win gold in the men’s cricket competition. His gesture towards Shah provided another memorable moment from the celebrations, with footage of the interaction subsequently attracting considerable attention on social media.
Here’s the video:
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi touching ICC Chairman Jay Shah feet after won the Gold Medal in Asian Games.♥️
Wait for Shreyas Iyer reaction. pic.twitter.com/SHcI8LVAj4
— MANU (@IMManu_14) October 3, 2026
Also READ: Fans go wild as India beat Pakistan to clinch Gold Medal at Asian Games 2026
India secure Gold after thrilling Pakistan clash
Suryavanshi also made a contribution with the bat during the gold-medal clash against Pakistan. India, after winning the toss and choosing to bat, posted a formidable 211/6 in their allotted 20 overs. The youngster opened the innings and scored 15 runs from nine deliveries. His brief stay at the crease included two sixes, giving India an aggressive start before he was dismissed.
Abhishek Sharma then produced one of the standout batting performances of the final, smashing 61 from just 28 balls. Tilak Varma added further impetus with a rapid 51 off 22 deliveries, while Shivam Dube chipped in with 27 from 15 balls. Pakistan mounted a strong response, largely through Hasan Nawaz, who played a sensational knock of 96 from 51 deliveries. However, India kept taking wickets at crucial moments and eventually restricted Pakistan to 192/6.
India’s 19-run victory ensured they finished the Asian Games campaign with the gold medal, while Pakistan had to settle for silver after a spirited chase.
Also READ: Clinical Sri Lanka thrash Bangladesh to secure Bronze Medal in Asian Games 2026
