Diplomatic Chill Reaches Cricket Pitch
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has declined to guarantee traditional pre-match formalities between players ahead of Sunday's high-stakes Women's World Cup encounter against Pakistan in Colombo. This development follows controversial incidents during September's men's Asia Cup, where Indian players reportedly refused post-match handshakes after their Super Four victory.

Key Developments:

• BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia states: "Our relationship with that hostile nation remains unchanged"
• Pakistan squad to remain in Colombo throughout tournament under neutral venue policy
• Historic context: First women's World Cup meeting since 2013 edition hosted by India

Protocol vs Politics
While Saikia confirmed adherence to MCC regulations governing match conduct, he notably avoided committing to customary sportsmanship gestures:

"Whether there will be handshakes, whether there will be hugging – I cannot assure you of anything at this moment."

Security & Logistics

• All India-Pakistan matches restricted to neutral venues since 2004 bilateral series
• Colombo's R. Premadasa Stadium to host potential knockout matches involving Pakistan
• Enhanced security protocols implemented following April's Kashmir conflict

Tournament Context
Hosts India began their campaign strongly with a 59-run victory over Sri Lanka in Guwahati. The Women's World Cup features 12 teams competing across four Asian venues until November 15.

Historical Precedent
The men's teams last shook hands during their 2022 T20 World Cup clash in Melbourne. Current women's squad members Harmanpreet Kaur (India) and Bismah Maroof (Pakistan) previously exchanged jerseys after 2020 T20 World Cup group match.

Expert Analysis
Cricket historian Ramachandra Guha notes: "This evolving protocol reflects broader geopolitical realities. While disappointing, it mirrors how cricket often becomes an extension of India-Pakistan diplomatic relations."