In what was expected to be a high-voltage encounter, the India vs Pakistan group stage clash at the Asia Cup 2025 on September 14 (Sunday) turned out to be one of the most lopsided contests in recent memory. India comfortably chased down a modest total of 128 runs, winning by seven wickets with 25 balls to spare. However, while the on-field action lacked excitement, the real drama unfolded after the final ball was bowled.
No Handshakes After Match Fuels Controversy
Tensions escalated when Indian players refused to shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts after the game. This unexpected breach of cricketing tradition left the Pakistan team visibly upset, prompting skipper Salman Ali Agha to boycott the post-match presentation ceremony in protest.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) reacted swiftly, lodging a formal complaint with both the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). The PCB has accused match referee Andy Pycroft of violating the ICC Code of Conduct and MCC’s spirit-of-cricket laws, claiming that his actions—or lack thereof—contributed to the breakdown of post-match protocol.
PCB Demands Removal of Match Referee Andy Pycroft
In a strongly worded social media post, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed the board’s formal protest:
“The PCB has lodged a complaint with the ICC regarding the match referee’s violation of the ICC Code of Conduct and MCC laws. The match referee took actions against the spirit of cricket. We have demanded the immediate removal of Andy Pycroft from the Asia Cup.”
As reported by Geo Super, the PCB’s letter stated that “no handshakes were exchanged before or after the match,” which they argue is a direct violation of the spirit and traditions of cricket.
Meanwhile, Cricbuzz has reported that the situation could escalate further, with Pakistan even considering a boycott of their next group game against UAE on September 17 (Wednesday). Sources say PCB believes Pycroft played an active role in influencing the teams’ conduct and that he allegedly instructed the captains not to engage in handshakes—a claim that, if proven, could have serious implications.
This threat carries real consequences for Pakistan’s Asia Cup 2025 campaign. If UAE defeat Oman in their upcoming fixture and Pakistan boycotts the September 17 match, UAE would secure 4 points, effectively knocking Pakistan out of the tournament.
As the situation unfolds, cricket fans across the world await an official response from the ICC. One thing is certain: the India-Pakistan rivalry continues to produce headlines—on and off the field.
