Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar disagrees with India’s no-handshake policy towards Pakistan, describing it as unnecessary. He believes it is not appropriate for a leading Cricket nation to engage in such behavior. This policy has been in place since the Asia Cup last year for both men’s and women’s cricket teams.
The policy was introduced following a terror attack in Pahalgam that resulted in 26 deaths, along with India’s Operation Sindoor. Ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 match between India and Pakistan, Manjrekar is urging the Indian team to either offer handshakes or refrain from playing against Pakistan.
“This no-handshake approach is silly. It doesn’t suit a nation like ours. Either play in the true spirit of the game or don’t play at all,” Manjrekar posted on X.
Meanwhile, India captain Suryakumar Yadav did not confirm if he would shake hands with Pakistan’s Salman Ali Agha after the toss.
“We’re here to play cricket, and you will have to wait for 24 hours. We’ll focus on having a good meal and resting,” he stated.
Conversely, Pakistan’s captain Salman Agha expressed that the upcoming match should reflect a positive spirit and that his players are open to the handshake, but the final decision lies with India.
“Cricket should be played in the right spirit. My thoughts are secondary; the game should be played as it has always been. It’s up to them,” Agha commented.
Pakistan had previously threatened to boycott matches in the Asia Cup when Suryakumar Yadav did not shake hands with the Pakistan captain. They opted to play, but the no-handshake policy continued. It remains to be seen what Yadav will decide for the fixture on February 15.
