BCB clarifies ‘No Handshake’ incident with India

U19 World Cup
Two team captains during toss
Two team captains during toss
Online Desk
Online Desk
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has clarified that the absence of a handshake during the toss ahead of the opening match between Bangladesh and India at the ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026 in Zimbabwe and Namibia was completely unintentional.

In a press release, the board stated that regular captain Azizul Hakim missed the toss due to illness, with vice-captain Zawad Abrar stepping in to represent the team.

According to the BCB, the missed handshake occurred due to a momentary lapse in concentration and was not intended to show disrespect or discourtesy towards the Indian team.

The board emphasized that it has taken the matter seriously and has immediately advised team management, reiterating that respect for opponents and the spirit of cricket are non-negotiable values for representing Bangladesh at any level.

The BCB further added that players have been reminded of their responsibility to uphold the highest standards of sportsmanship, camaraderie and mutual respect in all on-field and off-field interactions, reaffirming the board’s commitment to cricketing values both on and off the field.

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