In the recent T20 World Cup clash between India and Pakistan, India emerged victorious, scoring 175 runs while Pakistan was bowled out for just 114 runs before completing their 20 overs. The match, held at the Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, was watched live by an astonishing 450 million viewers. While the game was a display of cricketing excellence, featuring impressive performances from players like captain Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan, the post-match atmosphere was tainted by a significant controversy regarding the lack of handshakes between players, which sparked extensive debate on social media.

The disagreement about the handshake—or the lack thereof—drew criticism from various sectors, including former players, journalists, and cartoonists, all expressing their views online. Many argued that this situation overshadowed the glory of India's victory, suggesting a contradiction in the behavior of players who competed fiercely on the field yet chose not to engage in what is typically seen as a customary sportsmanlike gesture. Critics highlighted the perceived hypocrisy of the International Cricket Council (ICC) and national boards in facilitating the match while allowing for a boycott-like atmosphere off the field.

The controversy was ignited by former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar, who voiced his thoughts on social media, noting the implications of such actions in the context of sportsmanship. The handshake debate raised questions about the underlying tensions and politics affecting sports relationships between nations. As much as the match was celebrated, it served as a reminder of the complexities of cricket as more than just a game, but as a platform reflecting larger geopolitical issues.