Will the Captains Shake Hands Today?

Exactly a week ago, on 14 September, India and Pakistan met on the stage of the Asia Cup. Today, 21 September, the two arch-rivals meet again in the same tournament.

In the intervening seven days, a great deal has happened: the handshake controversy that placed match referee Andy Pycroft under scrutiny, Pakistan’s threats to boycott the Asia Cup, and their delayed entry — one hour late — into their match against the United Arab Emirates. Despite everything, the handshake debate refuses to die down, and the burning question remains: Will the two captains shake hands today?

From the outset, the Asia Cup’s grouping and fixtures indicated that the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) wanted at least two India–Pakistan encounters. That plan has unfolded: the first clash has already taken place, and the second is scheduled for today. If results align, there could even be a third showdown in the final next Sunday, provided both teams reach the summit clash.

Recent Performance Snapshot

Pakistan’s batting shortcomings have been clear: even in victories over Oman and UAE, Salman Aghar’s men faced significant difficulty. Against India, the defeats have been consistent — five consecutive losses in their last five meetings.

Yet, cricket is famously a game of glorious uncertainty, and dismissing Pakistan entirely would be premature.

On India’s side, confidence is not absolute either. Their match against Oman on Friday underscored how indispensable Jasprit Bumrah is to their line-up. Although he has taken just three wickets so far in the tournament, his presence in the playing XI is viewed as a psychological advantage.

For all the tactical and performance discussions, the spotlight remains fixed on the handshake row.

Indications suggest that today’s captains — or even the players more broadly — are unlikely to engage in a handshake. If that happens, the Asia Cup may once again stage another round of controversy and drama, further fuelling the already heated rivalry.