Dhaka, Jan 17 (.) The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on Saturday clarified that the absence of a handshake between the captains at the toss during the Under-19 World Cup match against India was unintentional and caused by a momentary lapse in concentration.
The incident occurred before the start of play when there was no customary handshake between the two captains at the toss, drawing attention amid the already sensitive backdrop of relations between the two neighbouring nations.
Explaining the circumstances, the BCB said regular Bangladesh Under-19 captain Md Azizul Hakim Tamim was unable to attend the toss due to illness. Vice-captain Zawad Abrar represented Bangladesh at the toss, while Ayush Mhatre led the Indian side.
In an official statement, the BCB said that the lack of a handshake was not deliberate and carried no intent to show disrespect towards the opposition.
“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 statement said.
The Board added that it had taken the matter seriously and had immediately advised the team management, reiterating that respect for opponents and adherence to the spirit of cricket are fundamental values expected from players representing Bangladesh at any level.
“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 statement added.
The BCB further reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the core values of the game, both on and off the field.
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