PCB Demands Removal of Match Referee Andy Pycroft From Asia Cup

DUBAI: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has formally requested the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft from the Asia Cup 2025, following the controversial no-handshake incident during Pakistan’s clash with India.

The drama unfolded right from the toss, where both team captains skipped the customary handshake. According to the PCB, match referee Pycroft instructed the players in a way that went against cricket’s spirit and long-standing traditions.

“No handshakes were exchanged before or after the match, which undermines the spirit of the game,” the PCB said, adding that Pycroft “failed to fulfill his responsibilities as match referee.”

The situation escalated after India’s seven-wicket win. Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav celebrated with his teammates and went directly to the dressing room without even going past the Pakistani team. Based on the customary sportsman conduct, Pakistani players were somehow disappointed on visible grounds.

In protest, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha declined to receive the presentation of the match. Head coach Mike Hesson affirmed that the team was awaiting the handshake, which never happened.

The PCB underlined in its letter that the instructions of the match referee aggravated the situation that impacted the spirit of the game and sportsmanship. The board has found it necessary to now call upon the International Cricket Council to revisit the situation and act on it.