The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has released an official statement addressing uncertainty over the national team’s participation in the ongoing Asia Cup, following the controversial handshake incident during the high-profile match against India.
Speculation grew after Pakistan cancelled its pre-match press conference ahead of the final Group A clash with the UAE. The PCB clarified that no final decision has yet been made about the team’s future in the tournament.
The controversy centers on match referee Andy Pycroft, whom the PCB accused of undermining the spirit of cricket by allegedly instructing Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha to avoid handshakes with India’s Suryakumar Yadav and ignoring India’s refusal to acknowledge Pakistani players post-match. The ICC, however, has reportedly dismissed Pakistan’s protest.
The issue has become more sensitive with the possibility of another Pakistan-India clash in the Super Four stage, as well as the financial stakes — withdrawal could cost the PCB around $16 million.
Despite the uncertainty, Pakistan’s squad held a training session last night, suggesting the match against the UAE will proceed. A final decision on whether Pakistan continues in the Asia Cup is expected after consultations between PCB and government officials today.
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