Handshake Controversy Takes Centre Stage Ahead of India-Pakistan T20 World Cup Clash
‘We’ll respond on the field,’ says Pakistan skipper Agha as Suryakumar keeps cards close to chest; high-voltage encounter set for Sunday in Colombo
COLOMBO, February 15, 2026 — The longstanding handshake controversy between India and Pakistan resurfaced on Saturday as captains from both sides fielded pointed questions at a pre-match press conference ahead of their T20 World Cup showdown in Colombo.
Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha, when asked about the handshake standoff, offered a terse response: “We will give our answer on the field tomorrow.” His Indian counterpart, Suryakumar Yadav, was equally cryptic, telling reporters, “Wait for 24 hours, then we’ll see.”
The handshake issue dates back to the Asia Cup 2025, when Suryakumar and the entire Indian team refused to shake hands with Pakistani players. The Indian captain had explained that the decision was taken to honour Indian citizens killed in the Pahalgam terror attack and was also seen as a gesture of solidarity with the Indian Army during Operation Sindoor.
The refusal to engage in the traditional pre-match handshake has since become a flashpoint in bilateral cricketing encounters, adding another layer of tension to what is already considered one of sport’s most intense rivalries.
Abhishek Sharma Confirmed for Pakistan Clash
On team selection matters, Suryakumar confirmed that opener Abhishek Sharma will feature in Sunday’s match against Pakistan. In a lighthearted moment, he quipped, “If the Pakistan captain wants, we will definitely play Abhishek.”
Agha Calls for ‘Right Spirit’ in Cricket
When questioned about the prevailing atmosphere surrounding India-Pakistan matches and the need to separate sport from politics, Agha struck a measured tone. “The match should be played in the right spirit. My personal opinion doesn’t matter. The game should be played the way it has always been played from the beginning,” he said.
Pakistan Aims to Rewrite World Cup History
Acknowledging Pakistan’s dismal record against India in World Cup encounters, Agha admitted the team cannot change history but expressed determination to improve. “We cannot change history. The record is not good, but this time we will try to perform better,” he said.
Pakistan has never defeated India in a World Cup match across all formats, making Sunday’s encounter particularly significant for the Green Shirts.
Confidence in Babar Azam’s Form
Addressing concerns about star batsman Babar Azam’s recent form, the Pakistan captain exuded confidence. “Babar is not a concern for us. He is scoring runs. I hope he will help the team tomorrow as well. We don’t want to make too many changes in the batting order,” Agha stated.
Mystery Spinner’s Action Defended
Pakistan captain also defended mystery spinner Usman Tariq, whose bowling action has attracted scrutiny. “He has been cleared by the ICC twice. I don’t know why there is talk about his action. He doesn’t pay attention to these things. For us, every player is equal,” Agha said.
Usman Tariq is playing his first T20 World Cup tournament and has emerged as a potential X-factor for Pakistan with his unconventional bowling style.
High-Voltage Encounter Awaits
The India-Pakistan match, scheduled for Sunday in Colombo, promises to be a high-octane affair with both sporting rivalry and off-field controversies adding to the spectacle. Cricket fans across the subcontinent are bracing for what could be one of the tournament’s defining moments.
With political tensions continuing to cast a shadow over cricketing ties between the two nations, Sunday’s match will be closely watched not just for the on-field action but also for the diplomatic gestures—or lack thereof—between the two teams.
