Overview:
Pakistan had threatened to boycott the Asia Cup matches after Suryakumar Yadav didn't shake hands with the Pakistan captain.
Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar is not in favour of India’s no handshake policy against Pakistan, calling it silly. He mentioned that it is unbecoming of a top cricketing nation to be a part of such antics. India have been following a no-handshake policy against Pakistan since the Asia Cup last year across all age groups in men’s and women’s cricket.
The decision was taken after a terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of 26 people and India’s Operation Sindoor. Ahead of the upcoming game between the two nations in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, Manjrekar has urged the Men in Blue to shake hands or stop playing against Pakistan.
“This ‘no shaking hands’ is such a silly thing that India has started. It’s unbecoming of a nation like ours. Either play properly within the spirit of the game or don’t play at all,” wrote Manjrekar on his X account.
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Meanwhile, India skipper Suryakumar Yadav refused to confirm whether he would shake hands with Salman Ali Agha after the toss.
“We are here to play cricket and you will have to wait for 24 hours. We will have good food and sleep,” he said.
On the other hand, Pakistan skipper Salman said that the upcoming match should be held in the right spirit, adding that his players are open to the handshake. He said the decision ultimately rests with India.
“Cricket should be played in the right spirit. My opinion don’t matter but cricket should be competed the way it has always been. It is up to them to decide,” Agha said.
Pakistan had threatened to boycott the Asia Cup matches after Suryakumar Yadav didn’t shake hands with the Pakistan captain. However, they agreed to play, but the no-handshake policy remained. It remains to be seen what stance SKY takes in the February 15 fixture.