With less than 24 hours to go for the India vs Pakistan blockbuster in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha has stirred fresh debate by refusing to confirm whether his team will shake hands with India before or after the match in Colombo.
Speaking to reporters on Saturday, Agha kept his response short and guarded. “We will see about it tomorrow,” he said, when asked directly about the pre-match handshake tradition.
IND vs PAK T20 World Cup 2026: Heavy Rain Alert Over Colombo Puts Big Clash at Risk
Handshake Question Returns to Spotlight
The issue dates back to last year’s Asia Cup, when India had decided to avoid the customary handshake with Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack. At the time, the move was described as a gesture of respect for the victims and solidarity with the Indian Army.
Now, as the two rivals prepare to meet again at the Premadasa Stadium on February 15, the same question has resurfaced.
While Agha avoided controversy, he did stress the importance of sportsmanship. “I expect the game should be played in the spirit it has always been played since its inception,” he added.
Indian Camp Yet to Clarify Stand
There has been no official statement from the Indian side on whether the handshake protocol will be followed this time. Sources indicate that the final call is likely to be taken by senior officials.
Given the emotional weight surrounding last year’s events, public sentiment remains a key factor. Social media reactions are expected to be intense, regardless of the decision.
ICC Pushes for Unity
In an interesting development, ICC chairman Jay Shah is expected to be in Colombo for the high-profile clash. Reports suggest that officials from all five Asian Test-playing nations — India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan — have been invited to watch the match together.
Bangladesh Cricket Board chief Aminul Islam Bulbul confirmed that the ICC wants representatives from these countries to be present at the ground and engage in dialogue.
The move is seen as an effort to cool tensions and reinforce cricketing ties in the region.
T20 World Cup 2026 Points Table: Zimbabwe Stun Australia, India Go Top; UAE Finally Open Account
Focus Still on the Game
Despite the off-field chatter, the spotlight will ultimately return to the cricket. India vs Pakistan matches at global tournaments are among the most watched sporting events in the world.
Whether there is a handshake or not, Sunday’s clash promises drama, emotion and high-stakes cricket — exactly what fans expect from this rivalry.
