India-Bangladesh U19 Handshake Row Ends with Post-Match Resolution
India and Bangladesh U19 teams shake hands after match despite no handshake at toss due to unintentional lapse.
A minor diplomatic storm erupted during the India vs Bangladesh Group B match of the ICC U19 World Cup in Bulawayo on Saturday after the two captains skipped the customary handshake at the toss. The incident immediately drew comparisons with the India–Pakistan handshake controversy seen during the Asia Cup last year, especially amid prevailing political tensions between India and Bangladesh.
However, the issue was quickly defused when the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) issued a clarification. The board stated that stand-in captain Zawad Abrar’s failure to shake hands with India skipper Ayush Mhatre was “completely unintentional” and occurred due to a momentary lapse in concentration rather than any deliberate act.
Following India’s 18-run victory under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method, players from both teams were seen lining up for the customary post-match handshake. The gesture effectively put the controversy to rest and reaffirmed the spirit of sportsmanship at the junior international level.
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On the field, India produced a strong all-round performance to register their second consecutive win of the tournament. Rain curtailed Bangladesh’s chase to 29 overs, but India held their nerve to defend the revised total, having earlier defeated the USA in their opening group match.
Indian bowler Vihaan Malhotra delivered a standout performance and was named Player of the Match for his crucial contributions. His spell proved decisive on a surface that offered variable bounce and movement due to damp conditions.
India captain Ayush Mhatre lauded his team’s composure and adaptability under pressure. He praised the batting efforts of Kundu, Vaibhav, and Kanishk, while also highlighting the tactical decision to introduce Malhotra at a crucial stage. Mhatre said the team remained confident despite rain interruptions, underscoring their belief and collective strength.
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