Handshake Drama Looms Over India-Pakistan T20 World Cup Clash in Colombo

With the high-octane India vs Pakistan Group A match just hours away at the R. Premadasa Stadium, all eyes are on whether the traditional handshakes, both at the toss and post-match, will take place, or if the lingering “no-handshake” controversy from recent encounters will persist.

The issue stems from the 2025 Asia Cup, where India, led by captain Suryakumar Yadav, opted out of customary gestures with Pakistan’s players, including skipping the captains’ pre-toss handshake and post-match greetings. This was linked to heightened geopolitical tensions following incidents in 2025, and it repeated across multiple India-Pakistan games that year, including the final.

Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha addressed the topic directly in today’s pre-match press conference, stating his team is fully open to shaking hands and emphasizing that cricket should be played in the right spirit. “We are ready if they are,” Agha said, putting the onus on India to decide on the toss handshake and end-of-match formalities.

However, reports from multiple sources indicate little change is expected. Handshakes are not mandatory under ICC rules, while the Spirit of Cricket encourages respect and courtesy, no regulation enforces them. Several analyses suggest India is unlikely to shift its stance for tomorrow’s game, with one outlet noting “hardly any possibility” of the gesture resuming.

The controversy resurfaced this week after the ICC posted an image of Zimbabwe and Oman players shaking hands post-match, captioned “Competitive on the field, respectful off the field,” which many interpreted as a subtle nudge amid the India-Pakistan tensions. Pakistan reportedly raised the issue during ICC negotiations to secure participation in the fixture, but the governing body declined to mandate it.

Social media and fan reactions remain divided, with some calling for sportsmanship to prevail and others viewing it through a political lens. Earlier unverified claims of a “handshake confirmed” or boycott reversal have not been backed by official statements from the BCCI or PCB.

Ultimately, whether the teams exchange handshakes will likely depend on India’s approach on the day, Pakistan has signaled willingness, but precedent points to continued avoidance. The focus, though, remains on the cricket itself in what promises to be another intense rivalry battle, weather permitting.