India and Bangladesh found themselves in an uncomfortable position during pre-match formalities ahead of the ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026 clash in Bulawayo.
India Under-19 captain Ayush Mhatre and Bangladesh stand-in captain Jawad Abrar had a heated altercation during the toss at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo on Saturday, January 17.
Captains of India and Bangladesh will not shake hands before the ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026 match
Bangladesh’s regular captain, Mohammad Azizul Hakim Tamim was unavailable due to illness, giving vice-captain Abrar the chance to lead in the crucial ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026 match.
When Bangladesh won the toss and decided to bowl first, the scene surprised many people. The two captains were standing close to each other, yet there was no handshake, no greeting and no acknowledgement. Abrar left Mhatre without any conversation.
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Both Abrar and Mhatre avoided even looking at each other at the time of the toss, which shows the extent of India-Bangladesh tension. After some time, the awkwardness continued during the national anthem.
In fact, India U19 and Bangladesh U19 players gathered near the boundary rope and then walked onto the field, but there was no handshake and both sides avoided talking.
to be continued…