The political undertones surrounding India vs Pakistan matches once again came into focus during the T20 World Cup 2026 clash in Colombo, this time over a handshake controversy involving Rohit Sharma and Wasim Akram. Former Pakistan opener Ahmed Shehzad publicly criticised Akram for warmly embracing Rohit ahead of the marquee encounter, suggesting the legendary fast bowler “always finds a way to shake hands where it’s necessary.”

The backdrop to this debate was India captain Suryakumar Yadav’s decision to skip a handshake with Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha at the toss. The move continues a no-handshake policy that began during last year’s Asia Cup. A BCCI official confirmed before the match that the stance would remain unchanged.

Despite the formal cold shoulder at the toss, Rohit Sharma and Wasim Akram shared a friendly hug near the boundary line, a moment that quickly went viral across social media platforms. The gesture drew mixed reactions in Pakistan cricket circles.

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Former pacer Mohammad Amir questioned the logic behind refusing handshakes altogether. Speaking on a Pakistani television show, Amir argued that sporting decorum should prevail regardless of political tensions. “If you don’t want to shake hands immediately, sanitise and do it later,” he remarked, expressing confusion over the rigid stance.

Surya Kumar didn’t shake hands with Pakistan captain Salman Agha.

Indian players didn’t shake hands with Pakistani players after the match.

But GC Rohit Sharma openly hugged Pakistan’s former captain, Wasim Akram.

GCs are so united against Modi over the UGC move that they’ve… pic.twitter.com/J2zuy7A9Z8

— Dr Nimo Yadav 2.0 (@DrNimoYadav) February 16, 2026

However, Shehzad clarified that his comment about Akram was not criticism. Instead, he framed it as praise, suggesting that Akram understands context and acts appropriately in every situation. “Wherever you are, do what is appropriate,” Shehzad explained.

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Notably, there were no handshakes between the two teams after the match either. Suryakumar Yadav has maintained this position in solidarity with victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and as a gesture of support for the Indian Army following Operation Sindoor.

With neither captain committing to a change in approach before the game, it was evident the status quo would continue in one of cricket’s most emotionally charged rivalries.