The cricket world braces for another India-Pakistan thriller at Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium on Sunday, but pre-match rhetoric hints at lingering frosty relations. Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha wishes for ‘good spirit’ in the contest but dodged questions on the customary handshake.
Memories of the Asia Cup in September 2025 still sting, when Indian players snubbed handshakes after three defeats to Pakistan. The rift deepened as India boycotted receiving the trophy from ACC head Mohsin Naqvi, Pakistan’s home minister.
In a press conference Saturday, Agha advocated for cricket’s traditional values. ‘It should be played with sportsmanship, as it’s always been,’ he noted. ‘My hopes aside, it’s their call on what they do.’
Queried directly about post-match greetings, he replied evasively, ‘Come back tomorrow for that.’
Rain looms as a potential disruptor, yet Agha remains unfazed. ‘Good cricket trumps everything – toss included,’ he asserted, underlining performance over luck.
He voiced optimism about India’s lineup, name-dropping Abhishek Sharma. ‘Fingers crossed he recovers and plays. We crave the toughest challenge.’
Points table shows India leading Group A at +3.050 NRR after two triumphs, with Pakistan close behind at +0.932. Amid diplomatic chill, the on-field battle could redefine rivalries.