India Instructs No Handshakes With Pakistan

India’s women’s team has been instructed by the BCCI to avoid customary handshakes and hugs with Pakistan at the toss and after their ICC Women’s World Cup match in Colombo on October 5, and the board has also advised against pre-toss photo-shoots — the toss presentation may be made by a neutral former player or pundit. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia told the BBC there is no assurance handshakes or hugs will take place but said MCC playing protocols will be followed. Pakistan’s team is monitoring the situation and manager Hina Munawar has sought guidance from the PCB on player conduct ahead of the game. The dispute follows tensions from the recent Asia Cup, including India’s refusal to accept the winners’ trophy from PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi, and the BCCI’s stance is reported to be aligned with the government amid wider bilateral strain after a recent military conflict. The ICC says handshakes are not formal tournament protocol and remain at players’ discretion, and India captain Harmanpreet Kaur has emphasized the team’s focus remains on playing cricket.