The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has threatened to boycott the ongoing Asia Cup if match referee Andy Pycroft is not removed from duty.
The dispute began after Pycroft allegedly prevented Pakistan and India’s captains from shaking hands following their tense clash in Dubai. The PCB viewed this as a breach of cricketing traditions and the Spirit of Cricket.
According to PCB officials, a formal protest has been lodged with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). The letter accuses the referee of violating both the ICC Code of Conduct and the MCC Laws.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed the protest, calling Pycroft’s conduct “damaging to the integrity of the game.” He added that the board had demanded immediate action.
Sources claim Pycroft told Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha before the toss that “there would be no handshake.” He also instructed Pakistan’s media manager not to record the moment. The PCB argued that these actions undermined the traditions of international cricket.
Following the match, Pakistan’s team manager Naveed Akram Cheema raised objections with tournament director Andrew Russell. According to the PCB, Russell admitted the directive had first come from the Indian cricket board but was later explained as instructions from the Indian government.
The PCB has made it clear that Pakistan will not play further matches in the Asia Cup unless the matter is resolved. The situation has added pressure on cricket authorities to address the growing controversy.
The issue now overshadows the tournament, with the Asia Cup facing uncertainty if the standoff continues. Analysts say the controversy could escalate if both sides fail to find common ground.
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