India-Pakistan games always bring drama. This time, it is not just about the cricket but also about what happens before and after the match.
BCCI Issues Strict Instruction
The BCCI has directed the Indian women’s team not to shake hands with Pakistan players during their ICC Women’s World Cup match in Colombo on Sunday. The order was given just before the squad left for Sri Lanka on Wednesday.
No Handshakes On Field
According to sources, the board made it clear that there will be no handshakes either at the toss or after the game. The team started its campaign with a win against Sri Lanka in Guwahati and now faces Pakistan in the second league match.
Neutral Venue Agreement
The game is being played in Colombo because both boards agreed to meet only at neutral venues. A similar approach was followed by the men’s team at the Asia Cup in the UAE, where India met Pakistan three times, including the final that India won by 5 runs.
Political Tension Still Visible
Political tension remained strong during the Asia Cup. The Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 people, and India’s Operation Sindoor in PoK were constantly referenced. These issues added weight to every India-Pakistan clash.
Trophy Row Adds Fuel
Matters escalated when India refused to receive the trophy from Asian Cricket Council chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who is also Pakistan’s interior minister and PCB chief. Later, the BCCI accused him of taking away the trophy and medals, deepening the conflict.
Message Behind No Handshake
The decision to avoid handshakes is a strong signal. What was once a simple sporting gesture has now become a message of defiance and a way to show India’s political stand on the cricket field.
Divide Between Boards
The trophy row remains unresolved. Naqvi has denied wrongdoing and asked India to collect the cup from the ACC office. The gap between the two boards looks wider than ever.
Match Importance for India
For the Indian women’s team, the match is crucial in the World Cup campaign. However, the off-field backdrop has ensured that the clash carries more significance than just the points table.
Another High-Stakes Sunday
This will be the fourth straight Sunday featuring an India-Pakistan game. Once again, cricket and politics will share the spotlight. In Colombo, the silence of no handshake will speak as loudly as the game itself.
