The cricketing rivalry between India and Pakistan intensified both on and off the field during the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026. At Edgbaston, Birmingham, on June 14, 2026, the match drew 18,814 spectators amid high expectations. The pre-match incident between captains became a focal point, capturing global attention through social media platforms.
Intensifying Rivalry: Harmanpreet Kaur Shuns Fatima Sana’s Handshake in 2026 T20 World Cup
The tension escalated during the coin toss when Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur won and chose to bat first. Instead of engaging in the customary post-toss handshake with Pakistan’s captain Fatima Sana, she proceeded directly to the media for an interview. After concluding her remarks, Kaur exited promptly, avoiding any interaction with Sana.
ThisCold-shoulder tactic by India’s team has persisted across multiple international fixtures, dating back to the 2025 Men’s Asia Cup. The protocol extended to junior tournaments like the Rising Stars Asia Cup, Under-19 Asia Cup, and Under-19 World Cup, signaling a deliberate stance in bilateral matches.
Video Clip:
GIGACHAD HARMANPREET KAUR
Harmanpreet Kaur skipped the handshake with Pakistan captain Fatima Sana and focused on the job. . #INDvsPAK pic.twitter.com/nOYUyN0dmj
— Faruk (@uf2151593) June 14, 2026
Kaur clarified sheavoided speculation, attributing her focus entirely to match preparation. She emphasized the team’s strategic rigor over external distractions.
India Earns Comprehensive Triumph Over Pakistan
India dominated with a score of 170/6, anchored by Smriti Mandhana’s 68 off 44 balls (154.54 strike rate), supported by Harmanpreet Kaur’s 36 (35) and Richa Ghosh’s explosive 34 off 17 (200 strike rate). Despite early collapses, their aggressive batting sealed the innings.
In the chase, Pakistan’s hopes waned quickly. Deepti Sharma’s spectacular 5/10 spell dismantled the Pakistani lineup, conceding mere 10 runs in 4 overs. Shreya Charani’s 3/21 further sealed the innings, forcing Pakistan to 106 in 17 overs.
India achieved a 64-run victory, with Fatima Sana dismissed for a duck by Shafali Verma. The win marked a strong start to India’s World Cup campaign, showcasing tactical brilliance and composure under pressure.
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