India and Pakistan will lock horns in a high-voltage Group A match of the T20 World Cup 2026 in Colombo on Sunday. But before the first ball is bowled, one big question is already in the air.
Will the players shake hands?
Since the Asia Cup 2025 in Dubai, cricketers from both sides have avoided pre or post match handshakes. The pause came after the Pahalgam massacre and Operation Sindoor, which led to strong public emotions and strained ties.
When asked about it, India captain Suryakumar Yadav did not give a direct answer. He made it clear that the focus is only on cricket for now.
“Now wait for 24 hours for that. Why put so much focus on that? We have come to play cricket. We will play good cricket. We will take all those calls later tomorrow. Wait for it. Eat well and go to sleep.”
Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha also avoided a clear response. He kept it short and simple.
“We will see about it tomorrow.”
Agha, however, shared his thoughts on how the game should be played.
“Cricket should be played in (right) spirit. My personal opinion may not matter. But cricket should be played according to how it has always been meant to be played. It’s up to them to decide what to do.”
Inside the Indian camp, the mood is said to be cautious. Emotions are still raw after the Pahalgam attack. There is concern about strong reactions on social media if any gesture is misunderstood.
Meanwhile, cricket officials will also be watching closely.
Bangladesh board chief Aminul Islam Bulbul will be present in Colombo. His visit comes at a time when there have been recent tensions with the BCCI. Top officials from the Indian board will also attend the match.
The ICC has invited representatives from all five Asian boards to sit together during the game and hold discussions at the venue.
“The ICC has taken a decision. The major stakeholders of the ICC are these five Asian countries and for the India-Pakistan World Cup match on the 15th, they want representatives of all five Asian countries to be present at the ground together, watch the match together and talk to one another.”
On the field, it will be another chapter in one of cricket’s biggest rivalries. Off the field, even a simple handshake could send a strong message.
For now, both teams are choosing to stay quiet. The answer may only come when the match begins in Colombo.