Pakistan Files Strong Protest to ICC Over Asia Cup Referee Major

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has reportedly rejected Pakistan’s demand to remove match referee Andy Pycroft, who is at the center of the recent handshake controversy during the Pakistan–India clash in the Asia Cup. The standoff has raised fears of a potential Pakistan boycott of the tournament.

• PCB had threatened to boycott the Asia Cup if Pycroft was not removed.

• ICC has denied Pakistan’s request, urging for a “middle ground.”

• ACC has proposed alternatives, including appointing Richie Richardson for Pakistan’s matches.

• PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi maintains a firm stance and refuses to compromise.

• Final decision expected soon, with Pakistan scheduled to face the UAE in their last Group A game.

The issue erupted after Pakistan players were left waiting in vain for the customary post-match handshake following India’s seven-wicket victory. The Indian team, with Pycroft’s alleged approval, headed directly to the dressing room, prompting outrage from the PCB.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and team officials lodged formal complaints with both the ICC and the ACC, calling the move a violation of cricket’s spirit and sportsmanship.

The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has stepped in to prevent the standoff from derailing the tournament. Among its proposals is the option of assigning Richie Richardson as match referee for Pakistan’s remaining fixtures. Despite this, sources confirm the PCB remains adamant about Pycroft’s removal.

The ACC is under mounting pressure to strike a balance between Pakistan’s demands and the smooth continuation of the competition.

With Pakistan scheduled to play the UAE in their final Group A clash tomorrow, uncertainty looms large over whether the game will go ahead. A final decision on the matter is expected soon, as officials scramble to resolve the crisis without further damaging the tournament’s integrity.

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