Cricket Diplomacy: Suryakumar Yadav's Handshake Stance

Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav maintained a 'No handshake' policy with Pakistan's Salman Ali Agha during their T20 World Cup match in Colombo. This stance, unchanged since last year's Asia Cup, represents solidarity with the families of victims in the Pahalgam terror attack.

Indian cricket captain Suryakumar Yadav refrained from shaking hands with his Pakistani counterpart, Salman Ali Agha, during the toss at their T20 World Cup match in Colombo. This gesture continues the 'No handshake' policy initiated since the Asia Cup last year in Dubai.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) official confirmed that the policy would extend to post-match interactions, excluding any handshakes between players and support staff from both teams. This approach signifies a tribute to families affected by the Pahalgam terror incident and solidarity with the Indian Army following Operation Sindoor.

The decision was set when neither captain expressed a willingness to engage in this customary gesture ahead of the game, citing an intention to preserve the cricket spirit while respecting national sentiments. Emotions linked to the terror attack remain fresh, particularly after the mixed responses to a previous handshake involving Suryakumar and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi in Dubai.