As anticipation builds for the blockbuster T20 World Cup face-off between India and Pakistan in Colombo, India captain Suryakumar Yadav chose to remain tight-lipped on whether team India would shake hands with their opponents.
India are set to face arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday in Colombo, in what promises to be one of the most high-voltage clashes of the tournament. Addressing the press conference, Suryakumar made it clear that the team’s focus remains strictly on cricket. Notably, players from both nations have not been shaking hands before or after matches since last year’s Asia Cup in Dubai.
“Wait for 24 hours. We have come here to play cricket. We will play good cricket. Eat well, sleep well; we will see tomorrow,” Suryakumar Yadav said.
The India-Pakistan rivalry has always transcended sport, and matches between the two sides routinely draw global attention. With both teams eyeing a strong position in the group stage of the T20 World Cup, Sunday’s fixture carries enormous significance. Suryakumar acknowledged the magnitude of the contest but reiterated that the team is approaching it like any other game.
"In my view, when you play any game, there's always pressure. But when you play an India-Pakistan match, it's more about the occasion. It’s a big platform, obviously," Suryakumar Yadav said.
Suryakumar all but confirmed the inclusion of star opener Abhishek Sharma. Abhishek had missed India’s previous match against Namibia due to a stomach infection, raising concerns over his availability for the Pakistan game. However, the skipper’s comments strongly indicated that the young opener has recovered in time.
"Well, if he (Salman Agha) wants him to play, then okay, we will play him tomorrow," Yadav.