The International Cricket Council (ICC) has reportedly reached a decision regarding Pakistan’s protest against match referee Andy Pycroft, who has emerged as the central figure in the recent Pakistan–India handshake controversy during their Asia Cup clash.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had allegedly threatened to boycott the remainder of the tournament if the Zimbabwean official was not removed from his role. However, the ICC has reportedly denied Pakistan’s request, urging them to consider a middle ground.
According to insiders, the PCB has refused to soften its position, making it clear that the national team will not take the field for its remaining fixtures unless Pycroft is replaced. The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has been actively engaged in crisis talks to defuse the situation, presenting a set of proposals for the PCB to consider. Among the suggestions is the possibility of appointing Richie Richardson as match referee for all of Pakistan’s remaining games.
Despite these proposals, sources confirm that the PCB has not budged from its firm stance.
Meanwhile, the ACC is under mounting pressure to resolve the impasse swiftly, as the standoff threatens to overshadow the rest of the tournament. Efforts are underway to finalize a solution that avoids Pakistan’s boycott while preserving the integrity of the competition.
The controversy erupted after Pakistan players were left waiting in vain for the customary post-match handshake, with Indian players heading directly to the dressing room following their seven-wicket win, all allegedly with the blessing of Andy Pycroft. The incident drew sharp criticism from Pakistan’s camp, prompting PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and team officials to lodge formal complaints with both the ICC and the ACC.
With ICC making its stance clear on Pakistan’s protest, the ball is in the ACC’s court to balance Pakistan’s stance with the continuity of the tournament. A final decision on the matter is expected soon.
Pakistan is scheduled to face UAE in their final Group A clash tomorrow but whether the match actually takes place, remains to be seen.
