Cricket matches between India and Pakistan have long been defined by intense rivalry and political tension, often extending to pre-match protocols. A recurring question among fans and observers is whether players from the two sides shake hands before or after games.
Recent history shows that formal handshakes between the teams have been rare in official encounters. The practice has been influenced by diplomatic relations, security concerns, and directives from respective cricket boards. While players have occasionally exchanged greetings informally, structured handshake ceremonies — common in other international fixtures — have largely been absent in India-Pakistan matches over the past decade.
The policy reflects the broader geopolitical context, with both the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) often aligning team conduct with government-level guidance. As a result, the absence of handshakes has become a symbolic feature of one of sport's most charged rivalries.
