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BCB Clarifies U19 WC Handshake Snub Was Unintentional Lapse

The Bangladesh Cricket Board has clarified that the absence of a handshake between its vice-captain and the Indian skipper at the U19 World Cup toss was unintentional. The BCB attributed the incident to a "momentary lapse in concentration" and stated there was no intent to show discourtesy. The board has taken the matter seriously, reminding the team of their responsibility to uphold the spirit of cricket. The episode occurs amid broader tensions in cricketing relations between the two nations.

Key Points: BCB: U19 WC Handshake Snub Unintentional | Cricket News

  • BCB issues clarification statement
  • Handshake missed at U19 WC toss
  • Cites momentary lapse in concentration
  • Reaffirms commitment to sportsmanship
2 min read

Absence of handshake with India captain in U19 WC was completely unintentional: BCB

Bangladesh Cricket Board says missed handshake with India U19 captain was a "momentary lapse," reaffirms commitment to cricket's spirit.

"The absence of a handshake... was completely unintentional and resulted from a momentary lapse in concentration. - BCB Statement"

New Delhi, Jan 17

The Bangladesh Cricket Board on Saturday said the absence of a customary handshake at the toss before their 2026 ICC Under-19 World Cup against India at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo was completely unintentional and caused due to 'a momentary lapse in concentration.'

With regular captain Azizul Hakim sidelined by illness, vice-captain Zawad Abrar represented Bangladesh at the toss, where he did not shake hands with India skipper Ayush Mhatre. The incident drew attention before the start of play, which was delayed by rain, with Bangladesh electing to field first after winning the toss.

"The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has taken note of an inadvertent and unwarranted action that occurred at the toss prior to the opening match of the ICC Under 19 World Cup 2026, Zimbabwe & Namibia, between Bangladesh and India. Due to illness, regular captain Azizul Hakim was unable to attend the toss, and vice-captain Zawad Abrar represented the team on the occasion.

"The BCB wishes to clarify that the absence of a handshake with the opposition captain was completely unintentional and resulted from a momentary lapse in concentration. There was no intent whatsoever to show discourtesy or disregard towards the opposition.

"The Board has viewed the matter with due seriousness, as upholding the spirit of cricket and respect for opponents is a fundamental prerequisite for representing Bangladesh at any level and immediately advised the team management accordingly.

"The players have also been reminded of their responsibility to maintain the highest standards of sportsmanship, camaraderie and mutual respect in all interactions with opposing teams. The Bangladesh Cricket Board remains fully committed to the values of cricket, both on and off the field," said the BCB in its statement.

Similar situations occurred in last year's senior Men's T20 Asia Cup when India and Pakistan captains did not shake hands at the toss in all three games. The episode comes amid wider strains in cricketing ties between Bangladesh and India.

The BCB is seeking to avoid playing its Men's T20 World Cup fixtures in India, especially after the BCCI requested IPL three-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from its squad for the 2026 season.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
It's a bit hard to believe it was just a "lapse in concentration." The handshake is such a basic, automatic part of sportsmanship. But okay, they've issued a statement. Hope the young players learn from this and keep the spirit of the game alive. 🤝
R
Rohit P
The real story is buried at the end. BCB wanting to avoid playing in India and the Mustafizur issue with KKR? That's the actual strain. This handshake thing is just a symptom. Cricket should be above politics, but sadly it rarely is.
S
Sarah B
As a neutral fan, I think the BCB handled it well. They addressed it quickly and reminded the players of their responsibilities. These are U19 players, they're still learning. The pressure at that level is immense.
V
Vikram M
Respect is a two-way street. If there are wider issues between the boards, it shouldn't trickle down to young players on the field. Hope both BCCI and BCB sort out their differences for the sake of the sport. Jai Hind!
K
Kavya N
Maybe I'm old-fashioned, but these small courtesies matter. It sets the tone. Glad the BCB took it seriously. Our boys played well and won, that's the best response. On to the next match! 🇮🇳

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