The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is facing a difficult situation as the national squad competes in the ongoing Asia Cup 2025. Pakistan’s tournament prospects is questionable as they approach a crucial must-win match against the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The dispute began with the PCB’s request to remove ICC match referee
Andy Pycroft following a handshake row involving India, which the International Cricket Council (ICC) formally rejected.
During Pakistan’s group-stage loss to India on September 14, the Indian players declined traditional handshakes at the toss and after the game. Following this, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha missed the post-match presentation in protest, accusing Pycroft of siding with India by advising that handshakes were not required. The PCB intensified the situation, insisting on Pycroft’s expulsion from the rest of the Asia Cup and threatening of a possible withdrawal if the demand was disregarded. However, the ICC declined to meet the PCB’s demands.
PCB spokesperson Amir Mir confirmed that no final decision had been made yet
On Tuesday, PCB cancelled their scheduled press conference but still went ahead with the planned training session at the ICC Academy ground. The session overlapped with India’s nets. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who also holds a ministerial position in the Pakistan government, flew to Islamabad earlier in the day to consult with officials over the standoff. Sources suggest his discussions with government representatives revolved around the diplomatic fallout of a potential withdrawal and how to balance national pride with cricketing obligations.
Meanwhile, a report indicated possible intervention from the UAE and Oman cricket boards, who mediated to defuse tensions. Interestingly, a compromise appears to be on the table with Pycroft might be removed from officiating Wednesday’s Pakistan-UAE game, with Richie Richardson stepping in, though Pycroft would remain on the tournament panel. PCB spokesperson Amir Mir confirmed that no final decision had been made yet.
“The Pakistan Cricket Board has not yet made any final decision regarding the Asia Cup. Consultations are underway in this regard, and a final decision will be made by tomorrow. The decision will be taken keeping Pakistan’s interest in mind,” Amir Mir said.
India
