India captain Harmanpreet Kaur continued the team’s no-handshake policy against archrivals Pakistan during the toss ceremony ahead of their ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 group-stage clash at R. Premadasa Stadium on Sunday. Pakistan skipper Fatima Sana won the toss and opted to bowl first, but attention was drawn to the absence of a handshake between the two captains.
Harmanpreet and Fatima walked out separately, avoiding pleasantries and even eye contact. After the coin toss, both spoke briefly to broadcaster Mel Jones before returning to their teams. This moment reinforced India’s continued adherence to the no-handshake policy, first seen during the men’s Asia Cup earlier this year.
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The issue initially surfaced during the men’s Asia Cup, when India and Pakistan met three times, including in the final, with India refusing handshakes. Sources in the BCCI confirmed the policy has government approval and applies across all national teams. Pakistan coach Mike Hesson noted that India’s stance was due to political sensitivities and security concerns.
The strained ties between India and Pakistan have worsened since April, following a militant attack on tourists in Pahalgam. Consequently, India has restricted sporting ties to neutral or global tournaments, with no bilateral series planned. Sunday’s fixture was staged under heavy security.
Ahead of the match, Harmanpreet confirmed one change in India’s XI, with Renuka Singh Thakur replacing the injured Amanjot Kaur. “We’ve gelled well as a team and are looking forward to today’s contest,” she said. Pakistan captain Fatima Sana said her side aimed to make the most of bowling conditions, noting that anything under 250 could be a good chase.
