IND vs PAK: Storm clouds, rain and handshake drama loom over India-Pakistan; Latest weather updates here
While millions of fans wait for the 7:00 PM local start, all eyes are currently on the Colombo skyline and the captains’ hands at the toss. From a looming low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal to the handshake situation, rooted in geopolitical tension, this Sunday’s clash is as much about what happens off the field as on it.
Weather: Bay of Bengal threat
Sri Lanka’s Department of Meteorology has issued a severe weather warning due to a low-pressure system developing in the south-eastern Bay of Bengal.
Forecast: Heavy rains and thunderstorms are predicted through the morning and afternoon. While BBC Weather suggests a potential "easing" by 4:30 PM, intermittent showers remain a 70–80% probability during match hours.
Silver Lining: The R. Premadasa Stadium is renowned for its world-class drainage. The entire ground can be covered in minutes, and play often resumes within 20 minutes of rain stopping.
What happens?: For a result to be recorded, each team must play at least five overs. If a total washout occurs, both teams will receive one point each, as there are no reserve days for the group stages.
"Wait for 24 hours": Handshake mystery
Beyond the weather, the diplomatic climate remains frosty. This is the first meeting between the two sides since the Asia Cup, where Indian players notably abstained from the traditional handshake following the Pahalgam massacre in April 2025.
Suryakumar Yadav’s stance: When asked if his team would shake hands today, the Indian captain was cryptic: "We will break the suspense tomorrow... wait for 24 hours."
Salman Ali Agha’s response: The Pakistan skipper called for the "Spirit of Cricket" to prevail, stating, "Rest is up to them [India], whatever they want to do."
Neutral Ground: Nearby hotspots like the Cricket Cafe in Colombo 7 have become a common area where fans from both embassies gather, though the tension on the field remains palpable.
Tactical spotlight:
Pause: Tariq’s unique side-arm action, featuring a long, statue-like pause before delivery, has baffled world-class batters.
India's counter: Suryakumar Yadav confirmed India has been running specialized drills to mimic Tariq’s action. "Usman is unique and we will not surrender to him," Surya noted.
Fitness update: In a major boost for India, Abhishek Sharma has been discharged from the hospital after a stomach infection and is expected to reclaim his spot at the top of the order.
