Shocking Pause by Shaheen Afridi and Usman Tariq Triggers Heated India vs Pakistan T20 Handshake Debate
The India vs Pakistan T20 clash in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 saw a continuation of the “no-handshake” protocol initiated by India’s Suryakumar Yadav during the Asia Cup 2025. While India’s skipper and team maintained the policy as a mark of respect for victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and in solidarity with the Indian Army, a new video of Pakistan stars Shaheen Afridi and Usman Tariq pausing after their loss has fueled speculation online.
India vs Pakistan T20: No-Handshake Protocol Continues
The India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 match in Colombo followed the ongoing “no-handshake” policy established by India captain Suryakumar Yadav during the Asia Cup 2025 in Dubai. Ahead of the game, a BCCI official confirmed that the tradition would continue, citing respect for the families of victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and solidarity with the Indian Army after Operation Sindoor.
During the toss, India skipper Suryakumar Yadav did not shake hands with Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha, maintaining the stance adopted last year. Similarly, at the end of the match, no handshakes occurred between the players or support staff of the two teams.
Shaheen Afridi and Usman Tariq Pause Sparks Speculation
A new video captured Pakistan stars Shaheen Afridi and Usman Tariq pausing briefly while glancing back at the Indian players after Pakistan lost their final wicket. While the exact reason for their pause is unknown, social media users speculated that the duo may have been waiting to shake hands with the Indian team.
Observers noted that the Indian team was celebrating at the side of the pitch during this moment, making the pause more noticeable. However, the ongoing policy and the sentiments around it suggest that no handshake was expected or encouraged in this high-tension context.
Background: Emotions and Cricket Protocols
The “no-handshake” stance is rooted in the emotional aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack in April, which left the Indian cricket community shaken. The decision to uphold this protocol has also been seen as a gesture of solidarity with the Indian Army. Previously, there was controversy when Suryakumar Yadav shook hands with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi at a pre-tournament captains’ press meet in Dubai, drawing significant backlash.
Social Media Reaction and Speculation
The video showing Afridi and Tariq has sparked widespread speculation on social media platforms, with fans debating whether the Pakistani players intended to break the protocol and offer a handshake. Many users acknowledged the sensitivity of the situation, while others criticized both teams for maintaining distance, highlighting how cricket often intersects with broader political and emotional narratives.
Upholding the Spirit of Cricket Amid Tensions
Despite the controversy, the Indian team’s decision to continue the no-handshake policy reflects an effort to uphold what Suryakumar Yadav described as the “spirit of cricket.” The protocol, while unusual in traditional sportsmanship terms, has been framed as a mark of respect and remembrance rather than a sign of personal animosity toward Pakistani players.
Conclusion: Handshake Debate Continues
The brief pause by Shaheen Afridi and Usman Tariq after Pakistan’s loss to India has reignited discussions on cricket etiquette, sportsmanship, and the emotional weight of India-Pakistan matches. While speculation continues, both teams are navigating a complex mix of competitive intensity, historical rivalry, and current sensitivities, ensuring that the India vs Pakistan T20 match remains one of the most scrutinized fixtures in international cricket
Written by 8jjsports.com News Desk | February 4, 2026
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