No handshakes between Bangladesh and India in U19 WC

U19 World Cup
Two captains during toss
Two captains during toss
Online Desk
Online Desk
Bangladesh Under-19 team have taken the field against India in the ICC Under-19 World Cup in Bulawayo, choosing to bowl first after winning the toss. However, the toss ceremony drew attention as players from the two teams did not shake hands.

Bangladesh are led by captain Azizul Hakim Tamim, though vice-captain and top-order batter Jawad Abrar went out for the toss. India were represented by their captain Ayush Mhatre. Jawad won the toss, but neither of the two representatives exchanged handshakes at the time.

According to ICC regulations, representatives of both teams are expected to shake hands during the toss.

The exact reason behind the absence of a handshake between the Bangladesh and India players remains unclear. However, it is being speculated that the move may be linked to the recent strain in diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Tensions have risen after the BCCI excluded Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from the IPL. Following that incident, Bangladesh reportedly cited security concerns in refusing to travel to India for the T20 World Cup.

These developments have contributed to a cooling of diplomatic ties between the two nations, which many believe has now spilled over into the Under-19 World Cup as well.

A similar situation was seen earlier during last year’s Asia Cup, when Indian and Pakistani players did not shake hands before or after their match due to diplomatic tensions.

The situation escalated further after India won the title, as they refused to receive the trophy from ACC chairman and Pakistani official Mohsin Naqvi.