In a striking display of the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan, the players from both teams refused to shake hands prior to and after their T20 World Cup clash, which took place in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The match was highly anticipated by fans due to the historic rivalry between the two nations. India emerged victorious with a commanding win, scoring 175 runs and bowling out Pakistan for just 114. This victory secures India's position in the Super 8 stage of the tournament.

The decision not to shake hands reflects the ongoing political and social challenges that overshadow sporting events between these two countries. Agha, a Pakistani player, expressed that the choice to engage in a handshake was up to the Indian players, but tensions in the lead-up to the match were evident. India’s Yadav, when asked about the handshake, was evasive, reiterating that the focus should remain on playing good cricket rather than the pre-match traditions that normally accompany international competitions.

Furthermore, the match followed recent political developments where the Pakistani government contemplated withdrawing from the tournament amid security concerns after political tensions escalated with Bangladesh's withdrawal from matches due to similar fears. This historical backdrop adds to the narrative of cricket as not just a game, but a reflection of diplomacy and national relations between India and Pakistan, illustrating how sports can be deeply intertwined with national identities and feelings.