Just a week after the men’s Asia Cup final, the cricketing spotlight shifts to the ICC Women’s World Cup, where India and Pakistan will once again renew their intense rivalry. Pakistan had earlier declined to travel to India over security concerns, leading to their matches being shifted to Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium.
Despite the political tension, the ICC’s official matchday procedures will remain unchanged — captains are expected to shake hands at the toss, and both teams must follow post-match etiquette by exchanging handshakes.
Sources in the BCCI revealed that Harmanpreet Kaur’s side has not received any special instructions about the protocol yet, but such decisions are usually finalized closer to the match. “It’s an ICC event, so protocols will be followed,” said a board insider.
Controversies and Mixed Reactions from Cricketing Circles
The India-Pakistan fixture has already sparked heated conversations on social media. Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf’s celebratory airplane gesture and a similar action by Fatima Sana during an ODI stirred online debates. Former cricketer Kamran Akmal even urged Pakistan to withdraw from the match, suggesting they should “not play cricket with India.” Meanwhile, former Indian players offered contrasting opinions.
Shobha Pandit said that Harmanpreet should be free to decide how she responds — whether through a handshake, a hug, or no interaction at all. Sandhya Agarwal recommended that the Indian captain approach the situation calmly, much like Suryakumar Yadav did in the men’s game, emphasizing that it shouldn’t add unnecessary pressure.
Addressing the media, Harmanpreet remained diplomatic, stating that her team is focused solely on cricket and doesn’t let off-field matters distract them. Handshake issues, she added, are not a topic of discussion in the dressing room.
Historical Rivalry and Shared Moments of Sportsmanship
Despite the political undertones, matches between India and Pakistan women have often showcased mutual respect and camaraderie. During their last World Cup encounter in March 2022 in New Zealand, Indian players visited the dressing room to meet Pakistan captain Bismah Maroof’s infant daughter, a gesture that Smriti Mandhana later shared warmly on social media. On the field, India has dominated the rivalry — winning all 11 ODIs and losing only three of 16 T20Is.
Pakistan’s Nida Dar has previously spoken about the rare but friendly interactions players share off the pitch. As the two sides prepare for another high-stakes clash, the spotlight remains on how sportsmanship and competition will coexist amid political sensitivities.
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