The Bangladesh Cricket Board clarified on Saturday that the lack of a handshake between the captains at the toss during the Under-19 World Cup match against India was purely accidental and stemmed from a brief lapse in attention.
With regular skipper Md Azizul Hakim Tamim ruled out due to illness, vice-captain Zawad Abrar took charge at the toss, while Ayush Mhatre led the Indian side. The missing handshake before the start of play drew attention, especially amid reports of strained relations between the two neighboring countries.
A similar incident had occurred at senior level last year, when the captains of India and Pakistan did not exchange handshakes at the Asia Cup toss. However, despite recent diplomatic tensions between India and Bangladesh, the BCB stressed that there was no deliberate intent behind the U19 incident.
“Due to illness, regular captain Azizul Hakim was unable to attend the toss, and vice-captain Zawad Abrar represented the team. The Board would like to make it clear that the absence of a handshake with the opposition captain was completely unintentional and the result of a momentary lapse in concentration. There was absolutely no intention to show any form of disrespect,” the BCB said in an official statement.
The Board added that it had taken the matter seriously, reiterating that respect for opponents and the spirit of the game are essential values for anyone representing Bangladesh. The team management has been advised accordingly, and players have been reminded of their duty to uphold the highest standards of sportsmanship, mutual respect, and camaraderie at all times.
The BCB concluded by reaffirming its commitment to the core values of cricket, both on and off the field.
