'We only talk about cricket': Harmanpreet Kaur shuts down handshake controversy talk ahead of Pakistan clash in Women's T20 WC

India and Pakistan are set to renew their epic rivalry on the biggest stage when the two teams meet in their campaign opener at the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 on Sunday, June 14 at Edgbaston in Birmingham. Ahead of the much-anticipated clash, captains Harmanpreet Kaur and Fatima Sana addressed the media, where discussions extended beyond cricket.

Harmanpreet Kaur gives blunt response

During the press conference, India skipper Harman was questioned whether there could be a handshake controversy just similar to the one seen during the men's T20 Asia Cup last year. The India captain replied to the question with a no-nonsense answer.

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Harmanpreet Kaur chose to stick to only cricket related queries. The India skipper made it very clear that the focus should stay on the game and the sporting rivalry between the two sides rather than off the field problems.

"Well, I think we are here for cricket, and we only talk about cricket; except for cricket, we don't talk about anything, and I don't even think about anything except cricket. Cricket has been our dream from day one, and we only talk about it. For tomorrow's game, we are thinking of it as just another game we are going to play," told Harmanpreet to reporters.

While continuing, Harmanpreet admitted that there's always pressure around the game against Pakistan irrespective of the occasions.

"Definitely pressure is going to be there, which I earlier agreed to; whenever we play against Pakistan, pressure will be there - but at the same time it's only about how we are going to enjoy that pressure because in any international game, pressure is going to be there; it's only about giving your 100% in that game and enjoying each and every moment," added Harmanpreet.

How has Harmanpreet fared against Pakistan in T20Is?

In T20Is, Harmanpreet has enjoyed considerable success against Pakistan in her career. Ahead of Sunday's clash, the India captain has gathered 194 runs from 15 games against the Arch-rivals.

On the other hand, Mithali Raj and Smriti Mandhana have scored more T20I runs for India against Pakistan than Harmanpreet Kaur. The India skipper sits third on the list and is within touching distance of overtaking Mithali during Sunday's high-voltage clash.