Tensions loom over India–Pakistan clash at Women’s World Cup

Exactly a week after the politically charged Asia Cup final between the men’s teams, India and Pakistan will cross paths once again — this time at the ICC Women’s World Cup on October 5. But even before a ball is bowled, the biggest question swirling around the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo is whether the players will observe the customary handshake.

Pakistan had earlier refused to travel to India for the tournament, citing security concerns, prompting the ICC to shift their matches to Sri Lanka. That decision has only amplified the spotlight on the upcoming fixture, which carries the weight of both sporting rivalry and political strain.

As per ICC protocol, captains shake hands at the toss, and both teams are expected to exchange handshakes after the match. However, the BCCI has issued no specific instructions to Harmanpreet Kaur and her squad. “It is an ICC event, so there will be protocols in place, which the team will keep in mind,” a board official was quoted as saying.

The anticipation is only growing. Former cricketers on both sides have weighed in—some urging restraint, others suggesting India should follow the no-handshake precedent set during the men’s Asia Cup. “Politics has brought extra stress, but I will back Team India and Harman in whatever they choose to do,” said former India player Shobha Pandit. Sandhya Agarwal, another ex-international, added, “Harman should face Pakistan exactly like Surya did. But I don’t see it as additional pressure.”

For her part, India captain Harmanpreet Kaur struck a composed note. “We can only control one thing, which is playing cricket on the field. Other things are beyond us, and we don’t even discuss them in the dressing room,” she said during the pre-tournament press conference.

This isn’t the first time cricket between the two nations has transcended the scoreboard. At the 2022 Women’s World Cup in New Zealand, Indian players won hearts by spending time with Pakistan captain Bismah Maroof’s infant daughter after their clash. Smriti Mandhana even lauded Maroof’s comeback post-pregnancy as “inspiring” in an Instagram post.

Yet, history of camaraderie and sportsmanship contrasts sharply with today’s tense atmosphere. India have dominated past encounters, winning all ODI meetings and losing only three T20Is out of 16 against Pakistan. But on October 5, it won’t just be about runs and wickets—the world will be watching every gesture, every glance, and perhaps most importantly, whether the hands extend across the divide.