DUBAI – The International Cricket Council (ICC) has turned down the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) request to replace match referee Andy Pycroft in the ongoing Asia Cup 2025. The decision was communicated to PCB officials late last night, according to Indian media reports.
The PCB had earlier filed a complaint against the match referee over alleged violations of the ICC Code of Conduct and the MCC Laws related to the Spirit of Cricket. The complaint was linked to the handshake controversy during the high-profile Pakistan-India match in Dubai.
Reports suggest that Andy Pycroft instructed both team captains, Suryakumar Yadav and Salman Ali Agha, not to shake hands due to the prevailing political climate. The directive sparked criticism, with many considering it against the spirit of sportsmanship.
In response, the PCB demanded the immediate removal of the match referee from the tournament. However, the ICC’s rejection means Pycroft will continue his duties in the Asia Cup.
The controversy did not stop there. The PCB also suspended its Director of International Cricket, Usman Wahla, following a series of issues that raised concerns about his decision-making and conduct.
Reacting to the situation, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed his disappointment. He stated, “Utterly disappointing to witness the lack of sportsmanship. Dragging politics into the game goes against the very spirit of sports.”
Naqvi emphasized that the PCB remains committed to discipline and professionalism. He also underlined that the honor of Pakistan is above all and that any behavior undermining the country’s prestige will not be tolerated.
The PCB has yet to announce a permanent replacement for Wahla but is expected to appoint a new Director of International Cricket in the coming weeks.
In other news read more about Mohsin Naqvi Demands Removal of ICC Match Referee After Asia Cup Controversy
