India Enforces No-Handshake Policy in T20 World Cup Clash with Pakistan: Report
The Indian cricket team has confirmed that there will be no handshake with Pakistan players during the T20 World Cup group stage match. This much-anticipated clash is set to take place in Colombo on Sunday, October 15, 2023. The decision aligns with India’s long-standing ‘no-handshake policy’ towards Pakistan, which was established following the Pahalgam terror attacks.
India’s No-Handshake Policy in the T20 World Cup
According to a report by The Indian Express, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav is expected to refrain from shaking hands with his counterpart, Salman Ali Agha, during both the toss and post-match ceremonies. This policy has been in place since the Asia Cup 2025, where similar gestures were omitted.
Statements from Captains
- Suryakumar Yadav commented, “Now wait for 24 hours for that. We have come to play cricket.”
- Salman Ali Agha remarked, “Cricket should be played in the right spirit.”
Agha expressed the importance of upholding the ‘Spirit of the Game’, indicating that while he supports traditional sportsmanship, the decision rests with the Indian team.
Presence of Key Figures
The match will also garner attention due to the attendance of significant figures in cricket administration. Aminul Islam Bulbul, the chief of the Bangladesh Cricket Board, will be present in Colombo to witness the match. His presence aims to mend relationships with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) after recent tensions.
Expected Attendees
Representatives from the BCCI are also anticipated at the match:
- Mithun Manhas (BCCI President)
- Devajit Saikia (BCCI Secretary)
- Rajeev Shukla (BCCI Vice-President)
Islam mentioned in an interview that the International Cricket Council (ICC) organized this match with the intent to foster dialogue among the major Asian cricketing nations.
Conclusion
The India-Pakistan T20 World Cup match is not just another game; it’s a stage for both sport and political gestures. The continuation of India’s no-handshake policy signals deep-seated sentiments in the cricket community. As the teams prepare for battle, all eyes will be on their actions during this high-stakes encounter.
