Handshakes Resume Between Bangladesh and India Players After BCB Clarification

The highly anticipated contest between Bangladesh and India at the ICC U19 World Cup 2026 started on a sour note, as both captains didn’t shake hands at the toss. This immediately set social media on fire, with fans spreading various rumors about the incident.

However, after the match ended, both teams shook hands, quashing all the speculations swirling around. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) also released a statement, describing the incident as "completely unintentional and resulting from a momentary lapse in concentration" on their part.

Interestingly, the captain of the Bangladesh U19 team, Azizul Hakim, wasn’t present at the toss. The vice-captain of the young Tigers, Zawad Abrar, went to the field as Azizul Hakim was feeling a bit unwell at the time. Fortunately, he returned to the ground in time and played the match with full fitness.

"Due to illness, regular captain Azizul Hakim was unable to attend the toss, and vice-captain Zawad Abrar represented the team on the occasion," said the BCB statement.

"The BCB wishes to clarify that the absence of a handshake with the opposition captain was completely unintentional and resulted from a momentary lapse in concentration. There was no intent whatsoever to show discourtesy or disregard towards the opposition.” added the BCB statement.

The board further said that they took this unintentional incident seriously, as upholding the spirit of cricket on the field is considered vital in Bangladesh. In this regard, the board has also advised players to maintain professional conduct on the field, ensuring that camaraderie and mutual respect between teams remain fully intact.

"The Board has viewed the matter with due seriousness, as upholding the spirit of cricket and respect for opponents is a fundamental prerequisite for representing Bangladesh at any level and immediately advised the team management accordingly.” said the BCB statement.

“The players have also been reminded of their responsibility to maintain the highest standards of sportsmanship, camaraderie and mutual respect in all interactions with opposing teams. The Bangladesh Cricket Board remains fully committed to the values of cricket, both on and off the field." added the BCB statement.