Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated that the apology from match referee Andy Pycroft has upheld Pakistan’s honour following the controversy over handshake protocols during the Asia Cup match against India. Naqvi emphasized that the incident, which led to a one-hour delay in the match against the United Arab Emirates (UAE), was a result of miscommunication and not intentional disrespect.
The controversy began on September 14 when Indian players, led by captain Suryakumar Yadav, refused to shake hands with Pakistan’s Salman Ali Agha before and after the match. The PCB alleged that Pycroft had instructed Agha not to expect handshakes, a decision that the board deemed unsportsmanlike. In response, the PCB demanded Pycroft’s removal from the tournament.
After a formal complaint from the PCB, Pycroft met with Agha and team manager Naveed Akram Cheema to apologize, describing the incident as a “miscommunication.” The apology was accepted, and Pycroft remained as match referee for the UAE match, where both captains exchanged handshakes at the toss.
Naqvi expressed gratitude that Pakistan’s honour had been preserved and reiterated the PCB’s stance that cricket should remain above politics. He consulted with former PCB chairmen Najam Sethi and Ramiz Raja before allowing the team to proceed with the match.
The incident has sparked discussions about the intersection of politics and sports, with many emphasizing the importance of maintaining the integrity and spirit of the game.
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