The handshake snub is the latest example of how cricket mirrors politics between the two countries.

Pakistan’s victory over the UAE set up the blockbuster rematch with India, yet it was the off-field turbulence that defined the day.

Pakistan, in protest, refused to attend the post match ceremony as tensions flared in a match which was the first between the bitter rivals since May's military action.

The nuclear-armed neighbours engaged in a four-day military conflict earlier this year, and bilateral cricket has remained suspended since 2008.

The rivalry between Pakistan and India in cricket is well-documented, with India generally having the upper hand in ICC tournaments since the 1990s. The last time Pakistan triumphed over India in an ICC event was in 2021 during the T20 World Cup, when they won in Dubai.

"It's going to be a great occasion," said Pakistan head coach Gary Kirsten.

"India vs. Pakistan is like the Super Bowl on steroids. We had no idea how huge it was," Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman said. "We want to put our best foot forward."

Gill missed the team's opening two victories but is likely to take the field at the world's biggest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad on Saturday.