Rohit Sharma and Wasim Akram Embrace in Colombo Amidst India-Pakistan No-Handshake Row
COLOMBO — A public display of camaraderie between former India captain Rohit Sharma and Pakistan pace legend Wasim Akram has captured global attention, standing in stark contrast to the prevailing diplomatic tension between the two cricketing nations. The embrace occurred at the R. Premadasa Stadium ahead of the high-stakes encounter where India defeated Pakistan by 61 runs.
Icons Unite Despite Diplomatic Frost
Rohit Sharma, attending the event as a brand ambassador for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, accompanied Akram to perform the ceremonial duty of presenting the trophy. Before the match commenced, the two legends were observed chatting animatedly and sharing a laugh. Their warm hug, captured by broadcast cameras, quickly trended on social media platforms.
This gesture provided a counter-narrative to the on-field protocols observed by the active squads. During the toss, India captain Suryakumar Yadav and Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha refrained from the customary handshake. This action aligns with the stance the Indian cricket administration has reportedly maintained since the previous Asia Cup, reflecting the strained political relations between the neighbors.
Match Report: India Dominates Group A Clash
Once the diplomatic narratives subsided, the focus shifted to India’s clinical performance. The defending champions secured a decisive 61-run victory, ensuring their qualification for the Super Eights stage.
Kishan and Bowlers Dismantle Pakistan
Batting first, India posted a competitive total of 175, driven by an aggressive innings from opener Ishan Kishan. Pakistan’s chase faltered early against a disciplined Indian bowling attack and the team was bowled out for 114 in 18 overs.
Hardik Pandya initiated the collapse with a wicket-maiden opening over, removing Sahibzada Farhan for a duck. Jasprit Bumrah followed up by dismissing Saim Ayub and opposition captain Salman Ali Agha, reducing Pakistan to 13/3 within the first two overs.
While Usman Khan offered brief resistance with a knock of 44, the introduction of spin sealed Pakistan’s fate. Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel controlled the middle overs, with Patel executing a crucial stumping to remove Usman. Tilak Varma made an immediate impact, taking a wicket with his first ball to dismiss Shadab Khan.
Match Statistics Summary
| Category | India (Winner) | Pakistan |
|---|---|---|
| Total Score | 175 All Out | 114 All Out (18 Overs) |
| Top Scorer | Ishan Kishan (77) | Usman Khan (44) |
| Key Bowling Figures | Varun Chakaravarthy (2 wkts) Jasprit Bumrah (2 wkts) |
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| Result | India won by 61 runs | |
This total of 114 marks Pakistan’s third-lowest total in T20 World Cup history, highlighting the comprehensive nature of India’s win.
Historical Context and Official Standings
The interaction between Sharma and Akram serves as a reminder of the personal respect shared between players across the border, despite the freezing of bilateral series. The ICC and the Asian Cricket Council continue to navigate these complexities to ensure tournament integrity.
For official standings and future fixtures, visit the International Cricket Council (ICC) or the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) official websites.