New Delhi: On Tuesday, the ICC rejected PCB’s demand to remove match referee Andy Pycroft from the Asia Cup. During the India-Pakistan match on September 14, Team India did not shake hands with Pakistani players, which sparked a major controversy.
The Pakistan Cricket Board blamed the match referee for this, alleging he failed to uphold the Spirit of Cricket. However, sources confirmed that the decision was not sudden — both the BCCI and the Indian government had agreed that while the match would be played, there would be no friendly gestures.
No Handshakes Throughout Tournament
On September 14, after Team India returned to the dressing room, the doors were closed and no handshakes took place. Sources say the Indian team will not shake hands with Pakistani players throughout the tournament.
If India reaches the final on September 28 and wins, the team is also unlikely to accept the trophy directly from PCB chairman and current ACC President Mohsin Naqvi.
India and Pakistan may clash again on September 21 in the Super-4 round if Pakistan defeats the UAE, and the Indian team is expected to maintain the same stance.
PCB Blames Referee, Threatens Withdrawal
Pakistan lodged an official complaint with referee Andy Pycroft, claiming the Indian team showed no sportsmanship. They allege Pycroft instructed both captains not to shake hands after the toss under Indian pressure.
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi said: “The PCB has demanded Pycroft’s immediate removal. He has not adhered to the ICC Code of Conduct and the Spirit of Cricket.” Reports suggest Pakistan could even withdraw from the tournament if action is not taken.
So far, neither the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) nor the BCCI has issued an official statement.
Reactions from Former Cricketers
The incident has drawn strong reactions in Pakistan.
- Former captain Rashid Latif said: “If it’s just about Pahalgam, then India should fight us. Don’t bring these things into cricket.”
- Ex-fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar praised India’s performance but urged not to mix politics with cricket.
- All-rounder Shahid Afridi remarked: “Let cricket be cricket, don’t politicize it.”
India’s Stand Linked to Pahalgam Attack
Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav defended the decision, saying: “Some things are above sportsmanship. The team management made this decision with the consent of the BCCI and the Government of India. The Indian team stands with the victims of the Pahalgam attack and dedicates this victory to the Indian Armed Forces.”