Not just Pakistan, no handshake policy extended to Bangladesh: India and Bangla U-19 skippers skip toss courtesy

Synopsis

A delayed cricket match between India and Bangladesh saw captains Ayush Mhatre and Zawad Abrar forgo the traditional handshake. This unusual moment follows a period of strained relations between the two nations. Recent events have impacted both political and cricketing ties, leading to significant discussions. The International Cricket Council is currently reviewing requests regarding future match venues.

The strained bilateral relations between India and Bangladesh filtered onto the cricket field as captains of the two teams abstained from making customary handshake ahead of their ICC Under 19 World Cup Group A match on Saturday.

Following a delayed start due to rain, India captain Ayush Mhatre and Bangladesh vice-captain Zawad Abrar were present for the toss. However, there was no exchange of greetings either before or after the coin was flipped, an unusual departure from cricketing tradition.

As of now, neither team has issued an official statement regarding the incident.

The episode has drawn attention after no-handshake policy between India and Pakistan since last year’s Asia Cup. That decision followed the Pahalgam massacre and the subsequent Operation Sindoor conducted by the Indian Armed Forces.

The political and cricketing relation between India and Bangladesh are on the lowest ebb of late.

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Several anti-Bangladesh rallies were held in various parts of India, protesting against the reported persecution of minorities in the neighbouring country in recent days.

The cricketing ties too have hit the nadir after the BCCI recently asked Kolkata Knight Riders to snap the IPL contract of Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman.

Subsequently, Bangladesh has requested the ICC to relocate its upcoming T20 World Cup matches from Kolkata and Mumbai, citing potential security risks to the players, officials and fans.

The discussions are currently underway between the International Cricket Council and Bangladesh Cricket Board in that regard.

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