The cricketing world is set to witness one of its most intense rivalries as India prepares to face Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2026 on 15 February. The match, scheduled to take place at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, has already generated significant buzz due to the geopolitical context surrounding the two nations. During the pre-match press conference, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav was questioned about the team's stance on the traditional post-match handshake with the opposition, a practice that has seen changes in recent encounters.
Suryakumar Yadav on Handshake Protocol
When asked whether the Indian team would participate in the post-match handshake ceremony with Pakistani players, Suryakumar Yadav maintained a composed and professional stance. He stated that everyone should wait for another 24 hours to see how things unfold on the field. According to the captain, the primary focus of the team remains on playing high-quality cricket and executing their strategies effectively. He emphasized that the team is in Colombo to compete and perform, advising the media and fans to stay patient until the conclusion of the match.
Origins of the Handshake Protocol Controversy
The discussion regarding the 'no handshake' policy traces back to the Asia Cup held in Dubai last year. This shift in protocol followed the Pahalgam attack and the subsequent 'Operation Sindoor' conducted by the Indian armed forces, while these events led to a heightened state of tension between the two countries, prompting a review of diplomatic and sporting interactions. According to officials, the decision to skip formal handshakes in previous matches was a reflection of the prevailing national sentiment and security considerations at that time.
Pakistan Captain Salman Agha on Sportsmanship
Pakistan's captain, Salman Agha, also shared his perspective on the matter during his media interaction. He expressed that while the decision ultimately rests with the Indian team, he believes that the spirit of the game should be upheld under all circumstances. According to Agha, cricket should be played with the same traditional values that have defined the sport for decades. He noted that while his personal opinion favors maintaining standard sporting gestures, he respects the autonomy of the opposition to decide their course of action.
Statistical Overview of India-Pakistan T20 Rivalry
Historically, India has maintained a dominant record against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup format. Out of the 8 matches played between the two sides in the history of the tournament, India has emerged victorious on 7 occasions. This statistical advantage provides the Indian team with a psychological edge heading into the 15 February clash. The R Premadasa Stadium is known for its slow surface, which typically assists spin bowlers, a factor that both teams have been analyzing closely during their practice sessions.
Match Day Logistics and Stadium Readiness
The Sri Lankan authorities have implemented a comprehensive security plan for the event, given its high-profile nature, while a multi-tier security arrangement is in place at the R Premadasa Stadium to ensure the safety of players and spectators. According to stadium officials, the match is a complete sell-out, with fans from across the globe arriving in Colombo. Weather reports indicate clear skies for the match day, ensuring that the game proceeds without interruptions. The Indian squad has completed its final training drills, focusing on adapting to the humid conditions of Colombo.