Cricket Handshake Rules Explained 2026: Post-Match Etiquette

Cricket etiquette: the post-match handshake — when players line up and shake hands. It's not a formal Law, but a convention. Here's what's expected in 2026.

The convention

At the end of an international match, both teams shake hands with opponents + umpires. Usually starts with the winning captain.

Evolution post-COVID

During 2020-22, elbow-bumps and fist-bumps replaced handshakes. Full handshakes are back from 2023.

When it's skipped

• Players leave field in protest of decisions (rare)
• Umpires sometimes skip in high-tension fourth-innings Tests
• Opposition captain refuses after a controversial end (e.g., Mankading incidents)

Is there a Law about it?

No — Laws of Cricket cover on-field conduct. Post-match rituals are convention + captain's discretion.

Famous incidents

• MS Dhoni-Virat Kohli post-match respect moments are iconic
• Warner-Smith post 2018 sandpaper-gate was notably cold

Related reading

Spirit of Cricket preamble and cricket umpire hand signals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the handshake a rule in cricket?

No — it's a convention, not a Law.

Can players refuse?

Yes, but it's rare and usually criticised.

Did COVID change it?

Temporarily — fist-bumps replaced handshakes 2020-22.

When is the handshake?

At the end of the match, both teams line up.

Who shakes hands first?

Typically the winning captain.

The takeaway

Bookmark the IPL 2026 points table, schedule, and Dream11 tools.