The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued a serious warning to the International Cricket Council (ICC).
They want the ICC to remove match referee Andy Pycroft immediately. If the ICC ignores this demand, Pakistan says it will not play today’s important Asia Cup match against the UAE.
The conflict started after the Pakistan-India match on September 14. Pycroft reportedly told Pakistan’s captain Salman Ali Agha not to shake hands with India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav before the match.
This caused tension, and after India won, Indian players did not shake hands with Pakistan’s team.
Pakistan’s players later tried to keep the tradition by visiting India’s dressing room but were refused.
Pakistan’s captain also skipped the post-match ceremony in protest.
The PCB called the ICC’s investigation into Pycroft’s actions a “drama” and said it was unfair and biased.
The ICC rejected Pakistan’s demand to remove Pycroft, saying he was just following rules from the Asian Cricket Council (ACC).
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi said Pycroft’s behavior broke cricket rules and asked again for his removal.
PCB insiders say Pakistan might quit the Asia Cup if Pycroft stays referee. If Pakistan skips today’s game, the UAE will automatically move forward in the tournament.
Also Read: Pakistan vs India clash: Who really dominate cricket’s greatest rivalry?
This match is very important because Pakistan and UAE both have two points in Group A and need a win to qualify.
This controversy highlights tensions between Pakistan’s cricket board and the ICC over referee decisions.
The handshake issue shows how politics and tradition mix in sports, affecting player conduct and tournament atmosphere.
The PCB’s strong stance could impact Pakistan’s participation in the Asia Cup, possibly hurting their chances in the tournament.
The ICC’s refusal to remove Pycroft shows the challenge of balancing rules with national sentiments.
This situation puts pressure on cricket authorities to resolve conflicts fairly and maintain harmony in international cricket.
