Handshake Snub Unintentional: Bangladesh Clarifies U19 World Cup Toss Controversy

The ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026 witnessed early controversy after a brief but widely discussed moment at the toss during the India vs Bangladesh clash. The incident, where Bangladesh’s stand-in captain did not shake hands with India skipper Ayush Mhatre, sparked intense debate on social media and drew comparisons with past high-profile handshake rows in international cricket.

Amid growing speculation and heightened political and cricketing tensions between the two nations, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) moved swiftly to issue an official clarification, stressing that the incident was entirely unintentional and should not be seen as an act of disrespect.

What Happened at the Toss

The controversy unfolded during the toss ahead of the opening U19 World Cup fixture between India and Bangladesh. With television cameras focused on the captains, viewers noticed that a customary handshake did not take place, immediately triggering reactions online. Given recent diplomatic and sporting strains, the moment was quickly interpreted by many as a deliberate snub.

However, according to the BCB, the situation had unusual circumstances. Bangladesh’s regular U19 captain Azizul Hakim was ruled out of attending the toss due to sudden illness. Vice-captain Zawad Abrar stepped in at short notice, and it was during this hurried transition that the handshake was missed.

BCB’s Official Clarification

In a detailed press release, the Bangladesh Cricket Board emphasised that the absence of a handshake was the result of a momentary lapse and not an intentional gesture. The board stated that Zawad Abrar, acting under unexpected circumstances, simply overlooked the protocol.

The BCB further underlined that respect for opponents and adherence to the spirit of cricket are non-negotiable values for anyone representing Bangladesh. The board said it had already advised the team management to remind players of their responsibilities regarding sportsmanship and conduct on the field.

By addressing the issue promptly, the BCB sought to defuse any misunderstanding before it escalated into a larger diplomatic or sporting dispute.

ICC Caught Between Rising Tensions

The incident comes at a time when relations between the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Bangladesh Cricket Board have been under strain. While the handshake episode itself was minor, it gained disproportionate attention due to the broader context surrounding India–Bangladesh cricket ties.

Tensions escalated earlier after the BCCI terminated the Indian Premier League contract of Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman, following strong backlash from political groups in India. The decision triggered outrage in Bangladesh, with the BCB responding by banning IPL broadcasts in the country and formally raising the matter with the International Cricket Council.

Bangladesh’s Firm Stand Ahead of T20 World Cup

The fallout has extended beyond bilateral relations. Bangladesh has reportedly informed the ICC that it is unwilling to travel to India for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 under the current circumstances. The board has also sought a change in group allocation to minimise matches and travel in India, a demand that places the ICC in a delicate position.

Against this backdrop, the handshake controversy at the U19 World Cup risked becoming another flashpoint. The BCB’s clarification appears aimed at preventing youth cricket from becoming entangled in senior-level disputes.

Focus Shifts Back to Cricket

With the explanation now on record, officials and observers hope the focus will return to the on-field action at the U19 World Cup. Tournament organisers have not indicated any disciplinary action, and the ICC is understood to be monitoring the situation without viewing it as a breach of conduct.

For both teams, the message from their respective boards is clear: maintain professionalism, respect traditions of the game, and ensure that cricket remains insulated from off-field tensions, especially at the junior level.

A Reminder of the Spotlight on Young Players

The episode also highlights the intense scrutiny young cricketers face on the global stage. A single missed gesture, even if accidental, can quickly spiral into controversy when emotions and geopolitics are involved.

As the U19 World Cup progresses, both India and Bangladesh will be keen to ensure that performances, not protocol disputes, dominate headlines.