India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 match began in Colombo without a handshake between the captains. Pakistan won the toss and chose to bowl first.
The India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 match began in Colombo with a cold moment at the toss, as India captain Suryakumar Yadav and Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha did not exchange a handshake at the R. Premadasa Stadium.
The absence of a handshake continues India’s no-handshake stance against Pakistan, followed since the Asia Cup 2025 across men’s and women’s matches.
Agha won the toss and chose to bowl in the Group A fixture. Before the match, neither captain confirmed whether a handshake would take place. Pakistan indicated its intent to maintain the spirit of the game.
The match proceeded amid high anticipation, ending speculation over pre-toss protocol between the arch-rivals.
Suryakumar Yadav says no to handshake with Salman Ali Agha at toss
— Vecna 001 (@VecnaBhau) February 15, 2026
Pakistan opt to bowl in Colombo#INDvsPAK #T20WorldCup2026 pic.twitter.com/5iTSTmSpA4
The move is a gesture led by Suryakumar Yadav to honour victims’ families and show solidarity with the Indian Army after the Pahalgam terror attack incident. Emotions remain sensitive within the Indian camp.
The stance appeared clear on the eve of the game when neither captain confirmed a handshake. Earlier, criticism followed when Suryakumar greeted PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi at a pre-tournament event in Dubai.
READ ALSO | Sanjay Manjrekar Calls India’s No-Handshake Policy Against Pakistan “Silly”
Meanwhile, in the match, Pakistan is fielding the same XI that played the USA. India has made two changes, recalling Abhishek Sharma for Sanju Samson and adding Kuldeep Yadav as a third spinner in place of Arshdeep Singh.
This article follows WicketWatcher’s editorial standards. Learn more in our Editorial Policy or report an issue via our Corrections Policy.