India Beats Pakistan By 61 Runs At T20 World Cup: No Handshakes Again, Are They Mandatory In Cricket?

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In the much-awaited Group A clash of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in Colombo, India didn't just beat Pakistan, they outplayed them. A commanding 61-run win, powered by Ishan Kishan's explosive 77 off 40 balls and sharp spells from Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya, pushed India comfortably into the Super 8.

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Pakistan were bowled out for 114 in 18 overs. The result was decisive. The message on the field was clear. But as the celebrations unfolded, another moment stood out. There was no handshake. Again.

What Happened With The Handshake?

There were no handshakes at the toss. None after the match either. This isn't new. The pattern began during the Asia Cup 2025, when India captain Suryakumar Yadav did not shake hands with Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha. Since then, the absence of handshakes has continued across multiple India-Pakistan fixtures.

This time was no different. According to Indian reports, the team is maintaining a "no-handshake policy" as a gesture of respect for victims of the Pahalgam terrorist attack and in solidarity with the Indian armed forces.

Pakistan's side has publicly maintained that they are open to customary handshakes and believe in upholding the spirit of cricket. The result? A visible break from tradition in one of the biggest rivalries in sport.

Why Does A Handshake Matter So Much In Cricket?

In most sports, a handshake is just routine. In cricket, it carries more importance.

• The idea is rooted in the Spirit of Cricket, which is written into the Preamble of the Laws of Cricket, maintained by the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC).
• The preamble makes two things clear:
• Cricket relies on respect for opponents.
• Captains are responsible for ensuring the game is played within the spirit as well as the laws.

Here's the key point: The Laws do not explicitly require a handshake. It is not written as a compulsory act. But over decades, it became a visible expression of that spirit.

Is It Mandatory Under ICC Rules?

The International Cricket Council (ICC) governs international cricket and sets playing conditions for tournaments like the T20 World Cup.

In ICC events:

• Teams traditionally line up after matches to shake hands.
• Captains often shake hands at the toss.
• Pre- and post-match courtesies are part of established protocol.
• But legally? There is no ICC rule that makes a handshake compulsory.

Skipping one does not automatically attract penalties unless it forms part of broader unsporting conduct. So the handshake sits in a space that is cultural, not regulatory.

Tradition, History And Symbolism

Cricket evolved in 18th and 19th century England with strong emphasis on gentlemanly conduct. Tours between nations highlighted camaraderie after competition. Bilateral series ended with formal greetings. Over time, the handshake became embedded in cricket culture - especially in high-stakes matches.

In cricket, a handshake symbolises:

• Respect despite rivalry
• Acceptance of the result
• Closure after intense competition
• When it doesn't happen, people notice. And they interpret.

Some see political messaging. Some see protest. Some feel it undermines sporting courtesy. Others support it as a legitimate statement beyond the boundary rope. That's why this conversation keeps resurfacing.

The Scoreboard And The Statement

On the scoreboard, the story is simple: India were sharper, stronger and fully in control. A 61-run win over Pakistan in a World Cup doesn't come lightly, and it pushed India confidently into the Super 8.

Off the field, the handshake debate reflects something bigger. It shows how cricket, especially India vs Pakistan, is rarely just about cricket. The win belongs to India. The absence of a handshake belongs to a larger conversation. And in this rivalry, both will continue to be discussed long after the final ball.