Former cricketer and commentator Sanjay Manjrekar ignited a heated discussion on social media after calling India’s no-handshake policy with Pakistan “silly” ahead of the India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 clash on 15 February. The tweet quickly drew mixed reactions, highlighting the tension between sportsmanship and national sentiment.
Manjrekar criticized the policy, stating, “This ‘no shaking hands’ is such a silly thing that India has started. It’s unbecoming of a nation like ours. Either play properly within the spirit of the game or don’t play at all.”
The comment divided social media users. Some defended Manjrekar’s stance, arguing that cricket should transcend politics and personal grievances. “Sanjay is absolutely right. If you step onto the field, you respect the game. Refusing handshakes looks petty, not powerful. Cricket is bigger than ego and politics,” one user wrote. Another added, “Well said, Sanjay! It looks like a school-kids’ rivalry. Either you play or you don’t, nothing in between!”
Others condemned the former cricketer for dismissing the policy, citing national pride and recent tensions. “Sports cannot be separated from national sentiment. If the players feel this is the right way to show solidarity with our armed forces, we should respect their choice. Respect is earned, not mandated,” commented one user. Another criticized selective outrage, asking, “Did you say even a single word when Pakistani players openly disrespected India through their social media posts?”
Some users questioned Manjrekar’s motivations. “We know that you are hurt as you aren’t part of the panel of commentators. Trying hard to stay relevant, huh?” one wrote. Others framed the issue in moral terms, suggesting that refusing handshakes while playing the game reflects hypocrisy.
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Handshake Controversy Ahead of India-Pakistan Clash
India captain Suryakumar Yadav avoided directly answering whether his team would shake hands with Pakistani players, emphasizing that the focus remains on cricket. “We are here to play cricket. We will play good cricket. We will take all those calls tomorrow. We will see tomorrow,” he said.
Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha stressed the importance of playing in the spirit of the game, noting that gestures like handshakes are ultimately India’s decision. “The game should be played in real spirit, the way it has been played since it started. The rest is up to them (India), what they want to do,” he said.
The debate over handshakes reflects a broader tension in India-Pakistan sporting encounters, where national pride often intersects with cricketing traditions and expectations of sportsmanship.