Table of Contents
- The Latest Salvo: Pakistan’s Promo Video
- The Origin of the Handshake Controversy
- Why the Handshake Matters in Cricket Diplomacy
- T20 World Cup 2026: The Stage is Set
- Conclusion: Will History Repeat Itself?
- Sources
The simmering cauldron of the India-Pakistan cricket rivalry has been stirred once again, not on the pitch, but through a cleverly crafted promotional video. Just months before their highly anticipated clash at the T20 World Cup 2026, Pakistan has taken a subtle yet unmistakable dig at India over the now-infamous handshake controversy. This isn’t just about sportsmanship; it’s a calculated move in the high-stakes game of cricket diplomacy.
The Latest Salvo: Pakistan’s Promo Video
Ahead of their home T20I series against Australia, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) released a promotional video that has sent ripples through the cricketing world. The ad features a tourist who, after a brief interaction, walks away without offering a handshake. A voiceover then quips, “Handshake bhool gaye aap?” (Did you forget the handshake?), followed by the suggestion that the tourist must have “learned it from India” .
This is a direct and pointed reference to the events of the ACC Asia Cup 2025, where Indian players, led by captain Suryakumar Yadav, refused to shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts. The promo cleverly uses humor to frame India’s actions as a breach of etiquette, a narrative Pakistan has been keen to push since the incident .
The Origin of the Handshake Controversy
To understand the weight of this latest jab, we must revisit the source of the tension. The handshake controversy erupted during the Asia Cup 2025, which was the first meeting between the two sides following the tragic Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025 that claimed 26 civilian lives .
In a powerful display of solidarity with the victims and the Indian Armed Forces, the Indian team made a collective decision to forgo the customary pre- and post-match handshakes. Captain Suryakumar Yadav stated, “We stand with victims of Pahalgam terror attack and dedicate this victory to our Armed Forces” . This decision was part of a broader national sentiment following India’s ‘Operation Sindoor’ against terrorist bases across the border .
From Pakistan’s perspective, however, this was seen as a personal and professional slight. The incident caused significant friction, with reports even suggesting that the Pakistani team threatened to leave the tournament midway after a standoff with the ICC over the issue .
Key Events in the Handshake Timeline
- April 2025: Pahalgam terror attack occurs.
- May 2025: India conducts ‘Operation Sindoor’.
- September 2025: India and Pakistan face off in the Asia Cup. Indian players refuse handshakes .
- January 2026: Pakistan releases a promo video referencing the incident ahead of their series against Australia .
Why the Handshake Matters in Cricket Diplomacy
In the world of international sport, a simple handshake transcends mere courtesy. It’s a symbol of respect, a bridge between nations, and a cornerstone of the so-called ‘spirit of the game.’ When that ritual is broken, especially between two nations with a history as complex as India and Pakistan, it becomes a potent political statement.
Pakistan’s promo is a masterclass in using media to shape the narrative. By framing India’s justified protest as a forgotten social nicety, they attempt to paint their rivals as unsportsmanlike on the global stage. This is a strategic effort to influence public opinion ahead of their next encounter, where the pressure will be immense.
T20 World Cup 2026: The Stage is Set
All eyes are now firmly fixed on the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026. The ICC has confirmed that the blockbuster match between India and Pakistan will take place on February 15, 2026, at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka .
This fixture is already one of the most anticipated sporting events of the year, but the renewed handshake controversy has added an extra layer of intrigue and tension. Will the Indian team maintain their stance? Will the PCB use this as further motivation? The diplomatic and emotional stakes for this single game are astronomical.
| Event | Date | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| India vs Pakistan, T20 World Cup 2026 | February 15, 2026 | R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo |
For fans looking to dive deeper into the historical context of this fierce rivalry, our analysis on [INTERNAL_LINK:india-pakistan-cricket-history] provides a comprehensive look at past encounters that have shaped this unique contest.
Conclusion: Will History Repeat Itself?
Pakistan’s promotional dig is more than just a marketing gimmick; it’s a declaration that the handshake controversy is far from over. As we count down to the T20 World Cup 2026, this incident serves as a stark reminder that for India and Pakistan, cricket is never just a game. It’s a reflection of their geopolitical relationship, a platform for national pride, and a stage for powerful symbolic acts. The world will be watching Colombo not just for sixes and wickets, but for a simple, yet profoundly significant, handshake.
Sources
- Startup Pakistan. “Pakistan Provokes India With New Series Promo Featuring…”
- India.com. “Pakistan take dig at India, new series promo asks…”
- India-Pak Handshake Row | ICC Protest & Cricket Etiquette.
- The handshake that became a headline.
- IND vs PAK: No handshake was a team call, says captain.
- Revealed! Why India Refused Handshakes With Pakistan.
- The ICC has released the schedule for the T20 World Cup 2026…