The India-Pakistan rivalry has always been more than just cricket, and it seems the upcoming ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 fixture in Colombo could be no different.
Ahead of Sunday’s much-anticipated showdown, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Devajit Saikia has sparked fresh controversy with remarks that hint at more political undertones than sporting courtesies.
No Guarantee of Handshakes
When asked about whether Indian and Pakistani players would exchange handshakes after the match, Saikia stopped short of offering a clear answer.
“I cannot forecast anything, but our relationship with that country remains the same, with no change in the past week,” he told an international media outlet.
He went on to add that India would abide by the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) regulations, but left the possibility of skipping handshakes or other gestures of sportsmanship hanging in the air.
Shadows of the Asia Cup
His comments arrive against the backdrop of India’s controversial conduct during the recently concluded Asia Cup.
The men’s team not only avoided handshakes with Pakistani players but also refused to receive the winners’ trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president Mohsin Naqvi, citing political differences. On top of that, several post-match ceremonies were marred by politically charged statements from the Indian side.
Given this recent history, many observers fear a repeat scenario in Colombo. The sport itself risks being overshadowed by politics, and the women’s fixture could become a stage for diplomatic theatre rather than a celebration of cricket.
Boria Majumdar Weighs In
Indian journalist Boria Majumdar echoed the same concern on X (formerly Twitter). He suggested that the Women’s World Cup clash might not look too different from the Asia Cup saga.
“The India-Pakistan game in Colombo will not be just another cricket match. It will be a continuation of the Asia Cup, and the only thing that changes is the gender,” he wrote.
More Than Just a Game
For fans around the world, an India-Pakistan match is usually a rollercoaster of emotions. The players carry not just their team’s hopes but the weight of decades of political tension.
Still, cricket lovers often long for moments where sport rises above politics. A firm handshake or a shared smile between players can mean more to the game than any boundary or wicket.
As Sunday approaches, the big question remains: will cricket take centre stage in Colombo, or will political drama dominate once again?
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