Mumbai : The International Cricket Council has rejected Pakistan’s demand to remove match referee Andy Pycroft from the remainder of the Asia Cup. The ICC has conveyed the decision to the PCB after investigating the matter. The Pakistan Cricket Board had lodged formal protests against the Indian players and match referee Pycroft.
The PCB had stated in its letter that Pycroft suggested Pakistan captain Salman Agha to not shake hands with Suryakumar Yadav. It had stated that Indian players were in violation of Code of Conduct Rules after they refused to shake hands with the opposition team. PCB had clearly mentioned that if Andy Pycroft is not removed, they would withdraw their team from the tournament. Pakistan’s next match is tomorrow against the UAE.
Usman Wahla, following the national men’s team’s seven-wicket defeat to India in the 2025 Asia Cup. According to media reports in Pakistan, the Mohsin Naqvi-led board took disciplinary action against Wahla for ‘failing to take timely action’ over the handshake controversy that marred the high-profile encounter. Pakistan’s anger stems from the controversy surrounding India’s handshake snub during the group-stage match. On Sunday, September 14, India skipper Suryakumar Yadav refused to greet his counterpart Salman Agha at the toss, which took place 30 minutes before the match.
The lack of a gesture angered Salman Agha, who skipped the post-match presentation ceremony in protest. While Suryakumar Yadav defended and explained the lack of handshake, Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson expressed his disappointment at the incident. The row soon escalated, with Pakistan lodging formal complaints against the Indian players and the referee. “Utterly disappointing to witness the lack of sportsmanship today.
Read Also : Won’t Go Anywhere From NDA : Nitish Assures Modi At Bihar Rally, He Urges Crowd To Their Feet To Applaud PM