In a high-voltage clash at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 in Colombo, India crushed Pakistan by 61 runs, delivering a commanding performance that once again highlighted their dominance in marquee encounters between the arch-rivals. On the field, it was a clinical display. Off it, however, the tension was just as palpable.

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Well before the first ball was bowled, the spotlight had shifted to India’s continued “no-handshake” policy, first adopted during the 2025 Asia Cup.

At the toss, India captain Suryakumar Yadav and Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha refrained from the customary handshake, setting the tone for what was to follow. The absence of the traditional gesture reflected the political strain that has increasingly cast a shadow over cricketing ties between the two nations.

The pattern repeated itself after the final ball.

As Indian players celebrated their emphatic win, Pakistan cricketers including Shaheen Shah Afridi and Usman Tariq waited near the field, anticipating the usual exchange of handshakes.

Instead, the Indian team walked past without acknowledgment — no handshakes, no eye contact — heading straight to the dressing room.

The move has been maintained as a mark of respect for the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and as solidarity with the Indian Army following Operation Sindoor.

India, who have already qualified for the Super Eight, will next face Netherlands at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Wednesday.