Cricket between India and Pakistan has become more than just a game, but a matter of identity and pride. Incidents of not shaking hands, online attacks on players, and growing concern among established commentators raise questions about whether cricket is moving away from its former sporting spirit. On the other hand, the appeal of former captains to Imran Khan has also shown that cricket remains connected to humanity beyond borders.
Handshake controversy and changing traditions at the team level
The discussion surrounding the traditional handshake intensified again during the recent India-Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 match in Colombo. The Indian team limited the traditional handshake to the toss and formal moments of the match, which many reports attributed to the team's policy. Previously, during the Asia Cup 2025, the absence of the traditional handshake after some matches was also reported. In cricket, shaking hands after a match has long been considered a sign of respect, so these incidents have sparked a new debate about sportsmanship.
The online environment and the increasing pressure on players
In the age of social media, every small action by players becomes a part of a larger discussion. Whether it's India-Pakistan matches or those involving other teams, players face online trolling and sharp reactions, making the sporting atmosphere even more tense. Experts believe that digital platforms have played a major role in emotionally and politicizing the competition. The way Mitchell Marsh was trolled for stepping on the cup after winning the 2023 Cricket World Cup was truly shocking.
Changing signs in commentary and analysis
Cricket analysts and former players have repeatedly expressed concern that the warlike language presented in India-Pakistan matches erodes the game's inherent enjoyment.
Commenting on the India-Pakistan match on his YouTube channel, Harsha Bhogle said, "I don't know if it's right to say this, but the truth is, I'm not as excited about the India-Pakistan match this time. You could say, 'Really?' Because we've seen so many matches where there's a strange feeling in our hearts about what's going to happen. Expectations soar, then plummet, sometimes bringing joy, sometimes disappointment. With every ball, there's a rollercoaster of emotions, keeping you on the edge of your seat, then accepting the result and moving on. It wasn't easy, but the game goes on.
But this time, I fear that our beloved game is becoming hostage to larger economic and political interests. It's being used as a tool for political games."
Former captains appeal to Imran Khan for sportsmanship across borders
Cricket, on the other hand, has presented a different picture. Concerned about Imran Khan's health and conditions in prison, 14 former international captains from around the world wrote to the Pakistani government, demanding better treatment and humane treatment. This list includes former captains from several countries, including India's Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev. This appeal, based on sportsmanship and humanity, indicates that despite on-field rivalries, human bonds still exist between players.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are the author's own and News Crab does not necessarily agree or disagree with them.
PC:NDTV
