PCB Protests Against Match Referee Andy Pycroft After India-Pakistan Game in Dubai
Tensions continue to rise in the cricketing world as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) finds itself in a serious dispute with the International Cricket Council (ICC) following a controversial incident during the India vs Pakistan match on September 14 in Dubai. The controversy centers around a post-match handshake snub that has sparked outrage in Pakistan, leading to a formal complaint against the match referee, Andy Pycroft.
The issue reportedly stems from the Indian players’ refusal to shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts, allegedly due to rising political tensions following the Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor. Pakistan believes the refusal went against the spirit of the game, and holds Pycroft responsible for failing to address the situation appropriately.
In response, the PCB demanded Pycroft’s immediate removal from the tournament. However, the ICC formally rejected the appeal, prompting Pakistan to escalate their stance. The team cancelled their pre-match press conference ahead of their must-win encounter against the UAE, scheduled for September 17.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi Criticizes ICC and Match Referee
Mohsin Naqvi, who serves as both the PCB Chairman and Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chief, expressed his frustration publicly on social media platform ‘X’.
“The PCB has lodged a complaint with the ICC regarding violations by the Match Referee of the ICC Code of Conduct and the MCC Laws pertaining to the Spirit of Cricket. The PCB has demanded the immediate removal of the Match Referee from the Asia Cup,” Naqvi stated.
Despite the controversy, the Pakistan team continues to train and prepare for their upcoming match. However, uncertainty looms over their continued participation in the tournament if the situation remains unresolved.
As of now, all eyes are on whether Pakistan will take the field on September 17 or take further action against what they view as a breach of cricketing protocol and sportsmanship.
