When the lights go down and the floodlights go off at the Kansas City Stadium on Wednesday, June 17, Lionel Messi will walk out for his 200th match in an Argentina shirt. One of the most iconic footballers to grace the game, Messi will become only the second player to reach the feat after his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo.

Two hundred matches is not just a number. It is a reflection of two decades spent meeting the expectations of a football-mad nation, surviving generations of tactical changes, heartbreaks and triumphs, and through it all remaining central to Argentina’s identity. From teenager making his debut in 2005 to captain who won the World Cup in Qatar, Messi’s international journey has mirrored Argentina’s own transformation.

Rivalry between Messi and Ronaldowhich shaped world football in the 2010s, still exists in large numbers. When Argentina’s legendary players walked off the field for Argentina’s opening match FIFA World Cup Against Algeria in 2026, he will do so as a world champion, while Ronaldo will continue to chase that elusive prize at the age of 41.

And perhaps this is what makes this World Cup different for Messi.

Argentina vs Algeria: When to watch?

Argentina vs Algeria will be played on Wednesday at 6:30 AM IST. The match will be telecast in India on United Sports and livestreaming will be available on the ZEE5 website and app.

For the first time in his international career, he is entering the tournament not with questions looming over his legacy, but with a sense of completeness. Every major debate that followed – comparisons with Diego Maradona, discussions about criticism and pressure over international success – has subsided since that night in Lusail. Now all that is left is the possibility of adding to something that already feels historical.

Messi will undoubtedly be in the center of attention in Argentina’s World Cup opener, not only because he is captain and the defending world champions, but also because of his increased familiarity with American conditions after spending the last few seasons with Inter Miami in MLS. The Argentine arrived in North America with his captain with a hamstring problem, but the latest update from the camp suggests he has recovered well and is expected to start.

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni was bullish on Messi’s availability, highlighting that despite leaving Europe’s top football more than two seasons ago, his influence is unmatched.

Scaloni explained, “Not only the Argentine population but everyone – the whole planet – wants to see him play.” “Everyone wants to see him on the field, because he has such an impact not only on Argentina fans but on supporters around the world.”

Scaloni’s words underscore something bigger than Argentina’s ambitions at this tournament. Even now, deep into his career, Messi remains football’s biggest attraction – the only player capable of turning a group-stage match into a global event.

The legendary forward gave supporters a glimpse of his condition by entering as a second-half substitute in Argentina’s warm-up match against Iceland last week. It took him no time at all to make his mark. With his first meaningful involvement, Messi delivered a pass for Lautaro Martínez; When the striker failed to finish and was awarded a penalty instead, Messi stepped up and converted the penalty without any trouble.

There were no celebrations that had any additional meaning and no dramatic statements. Another contribution from a player who has made extraordinary moments routine in 200 international matches.

Argentina vs Algeria: Predicted line-up

Argentina’s probable XI:E Martínez (goalkeeper); Molina, Romero, Lisandro Martínez, Medina; De Paul, Fernandez, Mc Allister, Almada; messi, lautaro martinez

Algeria’s probable XI: Zidane (goalkeeper); Belghali, Mandi, Chergui, Ait-Nuri; Bentaleb, Boudaoui; Mahrez, Maza, Amoura; Gauri

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Vaibhav Suryavansh clashed with Sri Lanka A player

India spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutley has addressed the controversy surrounding teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi after heated scenes erupted following India’s dramatic defeat to Sri Lanka A in the Tri-Nation A series in Dambulla.The 15-year-old found himself in the headlines after clashing with Sri Lanka A players at the end of a tense encounter at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on Monday. India A suffered a heart-breaking defeat in the Super Over, leaving their hopes of reaching the final in limbo, but the post-match controversy soon became the major talking point. Fresh details later emerged that Sri Lanka A player Vishen Halambage allegedly initiated the exchange after the hosts’ win.“The match is over…now you go home,” Halambaj reportedly told Suryavanshi. This comment prompted a reaction from the young Indian batsman, who responded verbally before pushing the Sri Lankan player. The situation escalated when both players came face to face, before teammates came forward to separate them.Speaking about the incident during a press conference, Bahutley described the episode as unfortunate but urged caution before passing judgment.“It was an unfortunate incident, but we don’t know how it was provoked. As far as I know.” grandeurHe’s a very laid-back boy.”The former India spinner said the matter would be addressed internally and stressed the importance of educating young cricketers about conduct on the field.“It was unfortunate, but I’m sure there are experienced coaches there who will explain things to them. I think Sri Lankan players should also be educated on how to behave and the same applies for us.”Bahule emphasized that Suryavanshi is still learning and taking on important responsibilities as a young international representative.“We will make sure he is given information as to why this happened. He is a young kid who has a lot of responsibilities and he is representing India. I think there will be some understanding, and I am sure he will not repeat it.”The Indian coach also expressed hope that such incidents can be prevented in future.“I think such incidents can be avoided.”Despite the confrontation, players from both teams completed the customary handshake after the match.

Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa has strongly hinted that the 2026 FIFA World Cup could mark the end of his playing career, saying he sees no purpose in football once his journey with the national team ends.

The 40-year-old, who is part of Mexico’s squad for the World Cup on home soil, Making his sixth appearance at the Men’s World Cup, Equaling the records of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Ochoa had previously hinted that the tournament would be his final chapter with El Tri, but his latest comments suggest retirement from club football may not be far behind.

Speaking in an emotional interview as part of FIFA’s ‘Letters That Unite’ series, Ochoa reflected on the central role the national team has played throughout his life and career.

Ochoa said, “The Mexican national team has always been my direction in my career and life; it has given me direction.” “I can’t understand my career without the national team. I don’t know what my career would be like without the national team. And now that my time with the national team is coming to an end, I don’t see any more meaning in football. I don’t see any more meaning in continuing to play.”

The veteran goalkeeper became quite emotional during the interview and said that he will leave the national team with pride and peace of mind.

He said, “I’ve enjoyed every moment there. I put everything I had into it. I’m leaving peacefully, with my head held high and I’m proud to have had this experience.”

Currently playing for AEL Limassol in Cyprus, Ochoa was an unused substitute in Mexico’s opening World Cup match against South Africa, with Ral Rangel getting the nod on goal. Although his role in the tournament may differ from previous editions, Ochoa’s legacy as one of Mexico’s greatest goalkeepers is already secure.

He starred in three World Cups as Mexico’s first-choice goalkeeper, putting in memorable performances that helped his country secure a goalless draw against defending champions Brazil in 2014 and a famous victory over holders Germany at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

Beyond the World Cup, Ochoa was also part of the Mexico team that won the bronze medal at the delayed Tokyo Olympics in 2021, adding another significant achievement to an international career spanning more than two decades.

Before the tournament, Ochoa acknowledged the importance of the final World Cup campaign. In a message posted on

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Smriti Mandhana (Photo courtesy: BCCI)

New Delhi: Vice-captain of India Smriti Mandhana Has earned yet another prestigious honor after being named in Time magazine’s list of 100 Most Influential People in Sports 2026, emerging as the only Indian to feature in the star-studded global lineup.The annual list recognizes athletes, coaches, investors and advocates who are “shaping sports today”. Basketball legend LeBron James headlines this year’s edition, which also features football icon Lionel Messi and Cristiano RonaldoTennis sensation Carlos Alcaraz, golfer Rory McIlroy, skier Aileen Gu, NBA star Victor Vembanyama and FIFA President Gianni Infantino. captain of south africa Temba Bavuma And New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson are also among the notable names on the list.

Mandhana’s remarkable progress has received global recognition

Time highlighted Mandhana’s remarkable achievements, noting how “records keep falling” for the Mumbai-born opening batsman.The 29-year-old became the first Indian woman to score a double century in a domestic one-day game and the first batsman from the country to score centuries in all three international formats. She is also the joint holder of the record for most centuries in women’s international cricket, with 17 centuries.Mandhana was also the first woman to score more than 1,000 ODI runs in a calendar year.However, TIME noted that the left-hander is most proud of the team successes he has helped achieve.Mandhana captained Royal Challengers Bangalore to Women’s Premier League titles in 2024 and 2026, while also serving as vice-captain during India’s victorious ICC Women’s ODI World Cup campaign last year, and was the second-highest run-scorer in the tournament.Her extraordinary consistency saw her record the most international runs by a woman across all formats in 2024 and surpass her own record in 2025, an achievement that contributed to her being named BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year.

The latest honor places Mandhana in elite company and underlines her growing stature as one of the most influential figures in world sport and the leading face of Indian women’s cricket.

Two weeks ago in Ahmedabad, Virat Kohli placed his hand on Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s shoulder and said something that the 15-year-old will have to remember throughout his career.

“Don’t pay attention to who is saying what or how they are saying it.” Suryavanshi later said that the moment seemed like a dream, it did not seem as if it was actually Virat Kohli. That the man used to talk to him like an elder brother. He preserved the words in the same way as you preserve something precious.

He forgot them on Monday.

In Dambulla, Suryavanshi made his comeback in circumstances already surrounded by controversy after India A’s defeat to Sri Lanka A in the Super Over. He was walking with Suryansh Shedge wearing gloves, with his head bowed. Then one of the Sri Lanka A fielders – Vishen Halambage, clapping, talking – said something. And the 15-year-old, who recently faced Jasprit Bumrah in front of 50,000 people, decided that his work was not done yet. He pushed Halmbej with his left hand Before Niroshan Dickwella steps in to separate them.

This lasted for a few seconds. This will be discussed for many days.

What happened in Dambulla?

The match itself had become a powder keg. India A and Sri Lanka A were tied at 265 runs, due to a no-ball dispute players from both teams had to return to the field after their departure, and Tilak Verma spent a lot of time in front of the umpires Finally, before the super over was played. By the time Mathulan’s yorker ended India A’s chase, the nerves had already worn off.

Suryavanshi had scored five runs in two balls in the super over. It wasn’t enough, and not out of willingness to try. As the hosts celebrated, he and Shaz began hiking. What happened next was brief but ugly: Halambase’s words, Suryavanshi’s reaction, a push, and then the cool head, Dickwella, Sri Lanka A captain Sahan Arachige, all taking it apart. What was a very bad ending to an entertaining match.

not the first time

In fact, it’s a familiar script, at least on the field, in the heat of competition. In December 2025, during India’s chase of 348 in the Under-19 Asia Cup final in Dubai, Suryavanshi scored 26 runs in 10 balls before Pakistan fast bowler Ali Raza dismissed him and celebrated with some sharp words. Suryavanshi did not go just like that. He turned, gestured, made his point. It went viral. Even then people talked about it for many days.

Two events months apart don’t define a character. Away from the field, Suryavanshi has consistently been the picture of decency – touching Sunil Gavaskar’s feet during IPL 2026, getting Kohli to autograph his Rajasthan Royals cap and wearing the orange cap in matches whenever he is not wearing it. The boy who pushed Halambaj on Monday is no different from the boy who bowed before Gavaskar. He’s the same person, at 15, still learning which version of himself to be at which moment.

These two incidents indicate something more specific and more understandable: that when Suryavanshi is in the field and the needle goes in, he reacts. In kind, immediately, without much calculation. That’s different from being an angry young man.

Should we evaluate him?

It is worth remembering that Kohli was not always the man to dispense wisdom on the outfield in Ahmedabad. In his early years, he was likely to be at the center of a flashpoint even when he was at the crease. He slurred, he gestured, he felt every dismissal and every lightness on his face. The words of the cricket boards were calm. The coaches intervened. At that time aggression seemed like a liability.

What changed was not the fire. It never left. What changed was the direction of its burning.

Kohli has learned over the years and through tough experience to put every last drop of that intensity into his batting and his fitness rather than into tussles with opposition fielders. Felt hungry. Flammability became an unrelenting refusal to be second-best. By the time he was telling a 15-year-old boy in Ahmedabad to ignore the noise, he knew exactly how difficult it was to follow that instruction – because he himself had failed at it repeatedly before getting it right.

Federer’s arc is almost identical. The Swiss who became synonymous with grace and calmness – the man they called the most beautiful player the game had ever seen, spent his adolescence breaking rackets and yelling at linesmen. His own coach Peter Carter was disappointed with his nature. Federer eventually came to understand that anger is energy, and energy can be redirected. This beautiful champion was built on an angry child who slowly learned what to do with himself.

Suryavanshi is not that angry child. But he is an extremely competitive individual, who has let provocation get the better of him on two occasions. This is a narrow accusation, and far more forgivable.

big picture

At the age of 15, while most of his peers are worried about board exams, Suryavanshi is facing Bumrah and Archer and Cummins in packed stadiums. He has already done what most cricketers never do: the fastest IPL century by an Indian, the Orange Cap, 776 runs at a strike rate of 237. He is living impossibly fast.

The incidents in Dubai and Dambulla are not a cause for concern. They are, if anything, evidence that the engine is running hot, which is exactly where you want it for a batsman like him. The task now is the same as it was for Kohli, as it was for Federer: not to cool the engine, but to learn to run it.

He already has the best possible advice. He had heard it two weeks ago, in Ahmedabad, from someone who had once needed it himself.

The runs are already here. The rest will follow.

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Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Tilak Verma

New Delhi: The India A vs Sri Lanka A match in the Tri-Nation A series in Dambulla had it all – controversy, confusion, heated exchanges, a Super Over and even a tense confrontation with teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi.While Sri Lanka A ultimately emerged victorious in the Super Over on Monday, much of the post-match attention focused on Suryavanshi after videos of the dramatic scenes went viral on social media.

Suryavanshi embroiled in heated argument

After the match was tied, there was confusion as to whether a Super Over would be played or not, as poor light became a concern. captain of india a Tilak Verma He was seen engaged in a lengthy discussion with the umpires, and insisted that the game continue and be decided through a Super Over.In a video going viral on social media, Suryavanshi can be seen first joining Tilak in his interrogation by the authorities. As the discussion heated up, India A coach Hrishikesh Kanitkar intervened and pulled the youngster away from the umpires.Moments later, Suryavanshi urged Tilak to step away from the discussion and was seen pushing his captain away from the boundary line as the argument continued.The drama did not end here.After Sri Lanka A’s victory in the Super Over, Suryavanshi had a heated exchange with the Sri Lankan player. The confrontation escalated briefly before teammates intervened and separated the players.

Exciting match decided by super over

Earlier, Sri Lanka A found a way to win after an emotionally charged encounter.Left-arm fast bowler Arshad Khan bowled a brilliant final over in stipulated time and conceded only four runs when Sri Lanka A needed five runs to win, sending the match into a super over.However, Arshad’s Super Over proved costly as Sri Lanka A scored 16 runs with the help of a wide and a no-ball.Chasing 17 runs to win, India A sent out Suryavanshi and Suryansh Shedge. But Sri Lankan fast bowler Kugathas Mathulan maintained his composure under pressure and restricted both of them to just nine runs, giving the host team a memorable victory.

Suryavanshi’s great start continues

15-year-old Suryavanshi once again showed glimpses of his talent at the top of the order and scored 21 runs against Sri Lanka A.This young player had earlier scored 14 runs in the opening game against Sri Lanka A and then played a brilliant inning of 44 runs against Afghanistan A.

Romelu Lukaku saved Belgium from an embarrassing start to their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign after the striker made immediate impact to earn a 1-1 draw against impressive Egypt in Group G at the Seattle Stadium on Monday.

The Napoli forward needed just 28 seconds to turn the contest after being introduced in the 66th minute, allowing Mohammed Hani to score an own goal to cancel out Imam Ashour’s first-half opener.

While Belgium will be relieved to exit with a point, the result represents a missed opportunity for Egypt, who defeated one of the tournament favorites for long periods and came within minutes of securing one of the biggest results in the country’s World Cup history.

FIFA World Cup 2026: highlight

Egypt affected

Most of the focus ahead of the match was focused on Belgium’s star-studded team, but Egypt emerged as the more cohesive and dangerous side for large parts of the contest.

Hossam Hassan’s decision to deploy Mohamed Salah in the middle proved effective belgium Egypt struggled to stop the movements of the attacking players. Salah played a key role in the opening goal and laid a pass into the path of Ashour, who fired a low effort beyond Thibaut Courtois for his first international goal in the 19th minute.

The benefits were totally worth it.

The Egyptian combined defensive discipline with offensive intent, frustrating Belgium’s wide players while limiting Kevin De Bruyne’s influence in advanced areas. Despite enjoying more possession, Belgium failed to register a shot on target in the opening half and looked short of ideas against a well-trained opponent.

Lukaku turned the tide

Belgium improved after the interval but continued to struggle to convert pressure into clear chances.

Courtois kept his side alive by making vital saves from Mustafa Zico and Salah as Egypt threatened to extend their lead on the counter-attack.

With Belgium lacking a focal point in attack, the introduction of Lukaku immediately changed the dynamics.

Thomas Meunier’s delivery into the box caused panic inside the Egyptian penalty area and under pressure from Lukaku, Heaney headed the ball into his own net less than half a minute after the striker entered the pitch.

The equalizing goal ultimately gave Belgium the momentum and highlighted the importance of Lukaku’s physical presence, who was absent for most of the match.

questions remain

Although Belgium pushed for a winner during the closing stages, Egypt held on to secure a point that could prove valuable in the race for qualification.

Despite avoiding defeat, Belgium will have to work hard due to the draw. There will be concerns for more than an hour over a performance from a team that is widely expected to challenge deep into the tournament, one that lacked creativity and urgency.

Meanwhile, Egypt will take a lot of confidence from their performance which showed they are capable of competing with the strongest teams in the group. The Pharaohs may have been denied a famous victory, but they left Seattle with a much stronger statement than their opponents.

Egypt will next face New Zealand, while Belgium will face Iran in their second Group G match on June 21.

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Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes (Image Credit: X)

New Delhi: England’s head coach Brendon McCullum has admitted that he is concerned ben stokes The England captain has been dropped from the team and placed under investigation following the nightclub incident, which has raised doubts over his Test future.Stokes and teammate Gus Atkinson were dropped from the squad for the second Test against New Zealand after allegedly breaching team protocol during a night out following England’s victory in the opening Test at Lord’s.According to reports, the night ended with a member of the England security team being assaulted by a rugby player from the English club Saracens at a nightclub where Stokes was present. The incident has intensified scrutiny over the culture and professionalism within England’s Test set-up.Speaking publicly on the issue for the first time on Monday, McCullum said his initial reaction of anger and disappointment had now been replaced by concern for his captain.“It’s about how we support these guys while not ignoring the fact that they haven’t lived up to the standards we’ve set,” McCullum said.“You can’t see beyond that.”“But at the same time, we’ll deal with it in time and through a process. But for me, it’s very much about how we support these guys in the next step, and in particular, Ben. And that’s where my mind is at – I’m concerned for him.”McCullum, who has forged a close relationship with Stokes since taking charge of the England Test team in 2022, refused to publicly support his captain to remain captain, insisting that the leadership group must complete its own investigation first.McCullum said, “Whatever will happen, will happen later. Those decisions are not made now.”“The concern at the moment is to make sure Ben is OK, and we need to take care of him, rally around him and make those kinds of decisions in a timely manner.”This controversy has once again raised questions on the off-field culture of England. Last week, England managing director Rob Key revealed that the England and Wales Cricket Board is considering banning alcohol following concerns about player behaviour.However, McCullum said he would prefer to educate players rather than completely remove their freedom to celebrate wins.“I’m in charge of the environment and I take responsibility for things that don’t work – what you can’t do is you can’t even make every single decision for people,” he said.“My job is to try to shape this environment, to try to shape these youngsters who are dealing with the high pressure and high scrutiny of playing international cricket on the big stage, and being away from home 12 months of the year, and the challenges that have come with that.”Despite the controversy, McCullum insisted that celebrations should still have a place in professional sport, provided they do not cross the line.“I believe there is a place where you never want happiness to end. I think it’s extremely important that you celebrate your successes,” she said.

England handed debut to Cox and Baker

With Stokes and Atkinson unavailable and Ollie Robinson ruled out with injury, England have been forced to make a number of changes for the second Test at the Oval.Middle-order batsman Jordan Cox and fast bowler Sonny Baker have been given a chance to make their Test debut, while Joffra Archer and Matthew Fisher have returned to the team.Off-spinner Shoaib Bashir has been left out of the playing eleven, while former captain Joe Root will lead England in the absence of Stokes as England look to clinch the series against New Zealand.

Cape Verde or Cabo Verde is one of four making their World Cup debut this year. When they made it to the FIFA World Cup for the first time in their history, there was celebration throughout the Atlantic archipelago. For a nation of over 500,000 people, qualification was more than a sporting achievement, it was a historic moment that united the entire nation.

The decisive moment came on the final day of African qualifying when the Blue Sharks defeated Eswatini 3–0 in Praia. The significance of the occasion was felt far beyond the confines of the national stadium, which can only seat about 8,000 spectators. Business slowed, workplaces emptied and much of the country stopped to watch the match that would become part of Cabo Verdean sporting folklore.

Although an attendance of 8,000 may seem modest by World Cup standards, it held enormous significance for one of the world’s smallest nations. Cabo Verde’s qualification places them among the least populous nations to reach football’s biggest stage, highlighting the scale of their achievement.

What makes this achievement even more remarkable is that it comes after a period of disappointment. The island nation failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, finishing bottom of their qualifying group and raising questions about the team’s direction.

Rather than derailing progress, that setback became a turning point.

Since taking over in 2020, head coach Pedro “Bubista” Brito has steadily transformed Cabo Verde into one of Africa’s most organized and resilient sides. Under his guidance, the Blue Sharks have become regular participants at the Africa Cup of Nations, qualifying for four of the last six editions and reaching the quarter-finals on two occasions.

Their path to the World Cup was not built on free-flowing attacking football or heavy scorelines. Rather, it was a campaign defined by discipline, efficiency and the ability to achieve results. Cabo Verde scored only 16 goals in 10 qualifying matches, fewer than any other African team to book a ticket to the tournament, but they consistently found ways to turn small advantages into victories.

Many of their wins have come by razor-thin margins, showing that the team is comfortable working under pressure and is determined to make the most of every opportunity.

That consistency proved decisive in a challenging Group D, where Cabo Verde finished with 23 points, ahead of regional heavyweights Cameroon and rival Angola sides. Finishing ahead of Cameroon, Africa’s most-capped World Cup winners, was perhaps the clearest indication yet of how far the Blue Sharks have come.

Dasta tells a unique story in itself. Like many small countries, Cabo Verde relies heavily on global diaspora. The players are spread across clubs from many countries, bringing together different influences and experiences of football. In the crucial qualifier against Eswatini, every member of the starting eleven was abroad, underscoring the international character of the team.

One of the standout performers during the campaign was forward Daylin Rocha Livramiento. The 24-year-old emerged as Cabo Verde’s leading scorer in qualifying, scoring four goals and playing a key role in the country’s historic run.

Now, the Blue Sharks are preparing for the biggest challenge in their football history. Whatever happens on the World Cup stage, his ability has already secured a place in the country’s sporting heritage.

For a nation spread across a chain of islands in the Atlantic Ocean, the trip to the World Cup is proof that size is no barrier to ambition. Cabo Verde may be one of the tournament’s smallest participants, but their story is one of the biggest.

New Delhi: The Indian women’s cricket team continued its ‘no handshake’ policy during the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup clash against arch-rivals Pakistan at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Sunday.At the time of the toss, India captain Harmanpreet Kaur and Pakistan captain Fatima Sana did not shake hands, continuing a trend adopted in recent India-Pakistan cricket matches.After India registered a resounding 64-run win over Pakistan, Pakistan head coach Wahab Riaz was asked about the absence of handshake during the post-match press conference.“I’m sorry to ask, but we noticed no handshakes again today. What is the relationship like between the players and staff of the two different teams? Are you friendly backstage, or is it just cold?” a reporter asked Riaz.The former Pakistan fast bowler, who represented his country in 27 Tests, 91 ODIs and 36 T20Is, replied:“Look, I don’t know. I left cricket a long time ago, so I don’t know the reason for not shaking hands. But I think if things want to go that way, then let’s go that way. It won’t make a big difference.”

India vs Pakistan ‘no-handshake’ policy

There has been a ‘no handshake’ stance between the Indian and Pakistani teams since the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor conducted by the Indian Armed Forces last year.This practice was first seen prominently when former India T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav avoided shaking hands during the Asia Cup in Dubai.Since then, Indian teams have largely maintained their toss timing and post-match policy against Pakistan.A similar scene was seen during the Women’s ODI World Cup match in Colombo earlier this year, where Harmanpreet and Fatima also did not shake hands.Speaking on the eve of India’s inaugural T20 World Cup, Harmanpreet kept her focus solely on cricket.Harmanpreet had said, “I think we are here for cricket, and we only talk about cricket, except that we don’t talk about anything else. Cricket has been our dream since day one, and we only discuss cricket and tomorrow’s game.”India have been placed in Group A along with Pakistan, Australia, Bangladesh, Netherlands and South Africa. Harmanpreet Kaur’s team will next face the Netherlands on June 17 at Headingley, Leeds.