HANDSHAKES and sportsmanship stole the show in neutral Sri Lanka at the first blind women’s T20 tournament. In a heartwarming moment, the visually challenged India and Pakistan teams shook hands, as they honoured the spirit of cricket. Unlike their national squads — male and female — the Indian team in Sri Lanka demonstrated sporting vision. The players of the two sides shared a bus, exchanged pleasantries, and the Pakistanis congratulated the Indian players on their victory. Lately, cricketing rituals — pre-toss protocols, words of encouragement, and line-up discussions — have become a casualty of politics, particularly India’s radical nationalism. Despite the May conflict, Pakistan has been willing to play against India according to the International Cricket Council’s schedules, upholding the tradition of not mixing sports with politics.

Sadly, India has deviated from the practice. From its insistence on neutral venues, refusal to play a group game during the World Championship of Legends, lack of etiquette and the Asia Cup trophy drama to the Indian women team’s insolence, the country has weaponised the sport. Cricket has served as a bridge in the most oppressive of times. Matches, seen as ‘cricket diplomacy’, went on during the Zia and Musharraf regimes. Former Indian prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee was in attendance to thaw ties. But PM Narendra Modi’s government has used the game to demonise Pakistan. Yet, images from the blind women’s T20 contest sent a message: those with few opportunities know the value of camaraderie, respect and optimism. India has indulged in burning bridges for political gains for far too long. The Asia Cup demonstrated how far Indian cricket has shifted from its past position: sport promotes solidarity in society and between nations. The country must take a cue from these young women. Sports is a safety valve. It makes space for dialogue, trust and hope. The people of the two countries deserve jovial tournaments. Their love for cricket should not be exploited.

Published in Dawn, November 18th, 2025