BCB Clarifies U19 World Cup Handshake Row: 'Completely Unintentional'

• The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) issued a clarification regarding the no-handshake incident between India and Bangladesh captains at the ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026 toss in Bulawayo.
• The incident involved India’s Ayush Mhatre and Bangladesh stand-in skipper Zawad Abrar, who did not shake hands, sparking controversy amid existing political and cricket tensions.
• BCB stated the incident was "completely unintentional" due to a momentary lapse in concentration, as regular captain Azizul Hakim was ill and Abrar stepped in last minute.
• The board emphasized there was no intent to disrespect the Indian team and the lack of handshake was not a deliberate act of hostility or poor sportsmanship.
• BCB has reminded its team management and players about maintaining the spirit of cricket and respecting opponents, especially given recent strained relations between BCCI and BCB.

Why It Matters: BCB clarified the U19 World Cup handshake incident was unintentional, stressing respect for opponents.