Pakistan pulls out of Asia Cup 2025 over Handshake Row

September 17, 2025

Dubai: Pakistan stunned the cricketing world by pulling out of their critical Asia Cup 2025 Group A match against the UAE today, forfeiting their chance to advance to the Super 4 stage.

The boycott, ordered by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), stems from a heated “handshake row” during their earlier clash with India on September 14 in Dubai.

The controversy began when match referee Andy Pycroft allegedly instructed Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha to avoid shaking hands with Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav at the toss, citing a “no handshake” policy amid strained India-Pakistan ties following a reported terror attack in Pahalgam. Post-match, Indian players also skipped the customary boundary rope handshake, a move India justified as solidarity with attack victims.

The PCB, however, accused Pycroft of bias and failing to uphold cricket’s spirit, lodging a formal complaint with the ICC.

Tensions escalated when the ICC rejected Pakistan’s demand to remove Pycroft from officiating the UAE match.

In response, PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi ordered the team to remain in their hotel, leaving kits on the team bus. The UAE, awarded two points via forfeit, advanced alongside India, while Pakistan’s tournament hopes ended abruptly.

The PCB’s decision risks ICC sanctions, including fines or future event exclusions, but Naqvi prioritized “self-respect” over participation.

The boycott has sparked debate, with Pakistani fans lauding it as a stand against perceived bias, while Indian officials downplayed the handshake’s significance.

The incident highlights the fragility of India-Pakistan cricket relations, casting a shadow over the ongoing Asia Cup and future tournaments. Naqvi is set to address the media, with the cricketing world awaiting further developments.