The most anticipated Indian-Pakistan clash at the ICC Women’s World Cup on Sunday began with a tense note, with Captain Harmanpreet Kaur And Fatima Sana chose not to shake hands. The lack of traditional signals reflects the growing anxiety between the two parties following the new controversy in the male cricket. The competition played at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, came in the middle of the growing political and sports tensions. India entered the competition with confidence after a 59 victory over Sri Lanka in their opening match, while Pakistan wanted to recover from a heavy defeat to Bangladesh, where they were released for just 129.
By the game, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia acknowledged that relations between India and Pakistan had been “aggravated” since last week following Asia Cup chairman Mohsin Naqvi. Speaking to BBC Sport, Saikia said, “India will play a cricket contest against Pakistan in the 5th, and all cricket protocols will be followed.” However, he is still not committed to sportsmanship, adding, “whether there will be a handshake or a hug, I cannot guarantee you anything right at this time.” Former Indian cricket and Jiostar expert Saba Karim also insisted that players will maintain the same stand as the men’s team during the Asian Cup. “BCCI has made its position very clear, the Indian women’s team will behave in the same way as the men’s team in the Asian Cup, I don’t think they will shake hands with Pakistan’s cricket,” Karim said during the media day interaction ahead of the competition. Karim also played the idea of the meeting as the most difficult Indian test in the tournament. “No, no. Pakistan comes through qualification. Facing side like India, it will be difficult for them. India is a much superior team, “he said. Discussing the situation in Colombo, he said, “Low wickets and balls change. Pakistan struggles in their first game against Bangladesh.
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Although the politicians have mastered the headline, India’s focus remains strong in the cricket. For the match itself, Pakistan won the throw, and Captain Fatima Sana chose for a cloudy bowl.
