In Colombo today, during a high-stakes match of the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup at R. Premadasa Stadium, the contest between India and Pakistan produced more than cricketing drama: captains Surya Kumar Yadav and Salman Ali Agha declined the customary handshake at the toss, sparking intense discussion across the cricketing world. Pakistan won the toss and elected to bowl. Pakistan made no changes to their XI; India made two significant alterations, bringing Abhishek Sharma into the side in place of Sanju Samson and selecting spinner Kuldeep Yadav instead of Arshdeep Singh.
The absence of a handshake at the toss-long a ritual of sporting courtesy-was notable against the backdrop of heightened political tensions between the two countries. The report notes that this is likely the first time such visible diplomatic coolness has been displayed at an ICC event. Observers trace the current strain back to incidents during the Asia Cup, including the Pahalgam killings and the controversy surrounding “Operation Sindoor,” after which Surya Kumar Yadav had previously refused to shake hands with Pakistan’s captain.
The issue had already surfaced at a pre-match press conference, where Surya maintained a cryptic stance when asked whether he would shake hands, saying, “Wait 24 hours and see.” Salman responded more diplomatically, indicating that any handshake or refusal would depend on the Indian team’s decision.
Earlier talks between the two boards in Lahore reportedly included a proposal for a symbolic handshake, a suggestion that was later withdrawn. The exchange at the toss and the surrounding comments underline how political tensions between India and Pakistan are now seeping into cricket’s traditional courtesies, turning routine rituals into statements watched closely by fans and officials alike.
Original Source: https://assam.nenow.in/india-pak-handshake/
Category: আন্ত: ৰাষ্ট্ৰীয়,ক্ৰীড়া,দেশ,শীর্ষ সংবাদ
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Publish Date: 2026-02-15 21:50:00
