IND vs PAK T20 World Cup: Pakistan captain Salman Agha has emphasised the significance of possessing a sporting spirit in the high-stakes India-Pakistan match, stating that his team is willing to shake hands with traditional foes.

Addressing the pre-match press conference, Agha replied diplomatically, putting the onus on India to decide on exchanging pleasantries at the toss and post-match.

"Cricket should be played in spirit. My personal opinion may not matter. But cricket should be played according to how it’s always played. It’s up to them to decide what to do," Salman Agha said in the pre-match press conference.

ALSO READ: Pakistan's Babar Azam Unveils Formula For India Showdown Success: 'Feels Like Entire World Is Watching'

India had previously opted to forego the traditional handshake with Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack in April.

During the Asia Cup last September, India captain Suryakumar Yadav declined to shake hands at the toss, and the Indian team bypassed the customary post-match pleasantries.

The decision was also described as a gesture of solidarity with the Indian Army during 'Operation Sindoor'.

Here Are Key Highlights Of Salman Agha's Press Conference

1) Salman on India batter Abhishek Sharma, whose participation in the match hangs in the balance due to a stomach illness.

"I hope Abhishek Sharma plays tomorrow. I hope he's recovering well. We want to play against the best," Salman said.

2) Salman downplayed concerns about Babar Azam's form, stating that the star batter's struggles won't impact the team's performance against India.

"Babar Azam is not a concern for us. He has been scoring runs. Hopefully, he'll score runs and help us tomorrow. We don't want to change the batting position too much," Salman said.

ALSO READ: Harbhajan Singh Urges India Batters To Tread Cautiously Against Pakistan's Mystery Spinner Usman Tariq: 'Will Win But...'

3) Salman acknowledged the team's lack of success against India in World Cups.

 "We cannot change history. We do not have a good record against India in World Cups, but we will try for a better performance."

4) Salman Agha remained unfazed by concerns over mystery spinner Usman Tariq's unorthodox bowling action.

"Usman has been cleared twice by the ICC. I don't know why there is talk about his action. He doesn't care about all this talk. For us, every player is equal. You guys have made Usman Tariq this big. He has been bowling well. He is our trump card."

5) Salman Agha played down the significance of the toss ahead of the India match.

"Toss cannot decide the game. If you play good cricket, you'll win. Cricket will matter, toss won't."