The upcoming ICC Women's World Cup 2025 is generating buzz not only for the exciting cricket action expected on the field but also for the potential geopolitical undertones surrounding the highly anticipated match between India and Pakistan. In light of recent events, including the Asia Cup 2025 handshake controversy, questions have arisen about whether the usual protocols of sportsmanship, such as handshakes, will be observed during the Women's World Cup fixture.
Handshake Uncertainty
The Pakistan women's cricket team is preparing for their match against India in Colombo on October 5, with the expectation that India may continue its "no handshake" policy, similar to what the men's team did during the recent Asia Cup. Sources indicate that the team management anticipates this stance from the Indian side.
During the Asia Cup, the Indian men's team avoided shaking hands with Pakistani players in all three encounters and even declined to accept the trophy from the Asian Cricket Council president, who also serves as Pakistan's interior minister. This gesture followed a period of heightened military tensions, further straining the relationship between the two nations.
Protocol and Sportsmanship
Historically, cricket's unwritten code promotes post-match gestures, like handshakes or glove taps, to foster camaraderie. While the ICC Code of Conduct emphasizes the "spirit of cricket," urging players to respect opponents and the game, there's no explicit rule mandating handshakes. Article 2.1 of the code stresses fair play and positive conduct but doesn't specifically require handshakes.
However, refusals to shake hands can be viewed negatively unless there are justifiable reasons. Some interpret the refusal of a handshake or ritual protocol as a political statement, especially when mixed with regional tensions. Spectators are left wondering whether the same air of hostility will extend to the women's game.
Differing Perspectives
Following India's victory over Pakistan in the Asia Cup clash, the Men in Blue opted against the customary handshakes, leading to debates on sportsmanship. Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha expressed his disappointment, stating that it's "not good for cricket" and that he had never seen a game go without a handshake in his years of playing competitive cricket. He emphasized that even during the worst times between the two countries, players have shaken hands.
Conversely, after the Asia Cup, India captain Suryakumar Yadav defended his team's stance, attributing it to a directive from the BCCI and team management. He stated that "some things are beyond sportsmanship" and dedicated the victory to the armed forces and families of terror attack victims.
ICC's Approach and COVID-19 Protocols
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the ICC has implemented flexible measures for tournaments, including the Women's World Cup 2022. While strict bio-bubbles and daily COVID-19 tests have been done away with, the ICC is determined to have a "managed environment" during the tournament. Testing will be infrequent, and players are urged to be sensible and avoid areas where transmission is possible.
In 2022, teams affected by COVID-19 were allowed to field a side with only nine players, with the potential for female substitutes from the management team to participate. These measures aimed to ensure the tournament could continue as normally as possible, maximizing opportunities for players to showcase their skills.
Looking Ahead
As the Women's World Cup 2025 approaches, all eyes are on the India-Pakistan match and whether the teams will adhere to the customary handshake protocol. While the ICC emphasizes sportsmanship and respect, the decision ultimately rests with the teams, taking into account the prevailing circumstances and directives from their respective boards. The outcome of this decision will likely be viewed as either a gesture of sportsmanship, a silent political statement, or a reflection of the ongoing tensions between the two nations.
