[WATCH] T20 World Cup 2026: Rohit Sharma greets Wasim Akram with warm hug during IND vs PAK match in Colombo

A rare moment of warmth briefly cut through the usual intensity of the India–Pakistan rivalry in Colombo, as former India captain Rohit Sharma shared a friendly exchange with legendary pacer Wasim Akram ahead of their high-profile ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 clash. The interaction, which included a hug, a handshake, and a brief chat during the pre-match ceremony, quickly went viral, offering a contrasting visual to the charged atmosphere surrounding the fixture.

Rohit was present in Colombo in his capacity as a brand ambassador for the global event, soaking in the build-up to cricket’s most watched rivalry. He spent time around the Indian camp, greeting players and support staff, carrying the air of a senior figure revisiting familiar territory. However, it was his interaction with Akram that drew the most attention. The two greats were tasked with walking out alongside the T20 World Cup trophy before the match, accompanied by ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta, and shared a light-hearted moment before posing for photographs at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo.

The exchange stood out sharply given the broader context of India’s continued no-handshake stance with the Pakistan team. At the toss, India captain Suryakumar Yadav once again refrained from the customary greeting with Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha, in line with the policy the Indian side has followed since the Asia Cup. Against that backdrop, Rohit and Akram’s embrace sparked mixed reactions online, with some fans appreciating the sporting spirit while others debated its optics amid the rivalry’s political undertones.

Watch the video of Rohit Sharma meeting Wasim Akram here:

Nibraz Ramzan@nibraz88cricket

Legends Hugs, Kids don’t Shake Hands.. #INDvPAK #T20WorldCup

12:18 AM · Feb 16, 2026

15.4K1.2K

Once the ceremonial formalities ended, however, the contest followed a familiar script on the field. The Men in Blue asserted complete control to register a dominant 61-run victory, further strengthening their recent stranglehold over the arch-rivals in white-ball cricket. The result extended India’s head-to-head advantage to a commanding 8–1 in T20 World Cups and confirmed their place in the Super Eights.

India’s dominance was set up by a commanding batting display led by Ishan Kishan. Opening the innings, Kishan played with intent and freedom, blasting 77 off just 40 deliveries to power India to a competitive total of 175 on a very tough pitch. His innings ensured India dictated terms despite a surface that offered grip and assistance to spinners as the match progressed.

Pakistan’s chase unravelled almost immediately. Any hopes of building pressure through a steady powerplay were dashed as they lost three wickets inside the first two overs, a collapse that effectively decided the contest before it could take shape. The early damage left Pakistan constantly playing catch-up, unable to establish partnerships or control the tempo of the chase.