The much-anticipated India-Pakistan clash in the ICC Women’s World Cup began on a tense note on Sunday, as captains Harmanpreet Kaur and Fatima Sana skipped the customary handshake at the toss.
The symbolic snub reflected the growing strain between the two sides, following recent controversies surrounding the men’s Asia Cup and diplomatic tensions off the field.
The match, being played at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, comes amid heightened political and sporting friction. India entered the contest buoyed by a 59-run win over Sri Lanka, while Pakistan were hoping to bounce back after a poor show against Bangladesh, where they were bowled out for 129.
BCCI acknowledges strained relations
Ahead of the high-voltage encounter, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia told BBC Sport that ties between the boards had “worsened” in the past week after Asia Cup chairperson Mohsin Naqvi’s trophy delay incident.
“India will play the cricket match against Pakistan on the 5th, and all cricket protocols will be followed,” Saikia said. However, he added cautiously, “Whether there will be a handshake or hugging, I cannot assure you anything right at this moment.”
BCCI stance reflected by players
Former India cricketer and JioStar expert Saba Karim had earlier suggested that the women’s team would mirror the men’s side’s stance from the Asia Cup.
“The BCCI has made its stance very clear. The Indian women’s team will behave in the same manner as the men’s team did. I don’t think they will shake hands with the Pakistani cricketers,” he said.
Karim also played down talk of Pakistan being India’s toughest challenge, calling England, Australia, and New Zealand the “real tests” of the tournament.
On-field focus returns
Despite the political undertones, India’s focus remains on cricket. Conditions in Colombo are expected to favour spinners, giving players like Deepti Sharma, Sneh Rana, and Shree Charani an advantage.
At the toss, Pakistan won and skipper Fatima Sana opted to bowl first, citing overcast conditions.