ICC Rejects PCB’s Demand to Remove Andy Pycroft as Asia Cup Match Referee
- The ICC has rejected PCB’s demand to replace match referee Andy Pycroft at the Asia Cup.
- PCB alleged Pycroft influenced the India-Pakistan toss handshake decision.
- ICC clarified Pycroft was only relaying ACC instructions, not acting on India’s behalf.
- Tensions rise as PCB threatens not to play their Pakistan vs UAE clash if Pycroft officiates.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has firmly dismissed the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) request to replace senior match referee Andy Pycroft from the ongoing Asia Cup 2025, amid the fallout from the India-Pakistan “handshake controversy” in Dubai.
According to Cricbuzz, which first reported the possible rejection earlier this week, the ICC’s decision was conveyed to PCB on Tuesday night. The governing body clarified that Pycroft, a 69-year-old Zimbabwean veteran, had no role in influencing the events that unfolded after the high-voltage clash.
PCB’s Allegation Against Pycroft
The controversy began when Pakistani captain Salman Ali Agha reportedly avoided shaking hands with Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav at the toss. The PCB later alleged that Pycroft had instructed Salman to skip the customary gesture, questioning his neutrality as a match official.
However, the ICC has firmly countered this claim. Sources within the governing body revealed that Pycroft was simply relaying what had been conveyed to him by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) officials on the ground. This clarification effectively absolves him of any bias or wrongdoing, quashing PCB’s accusations.
ICC’s Stand – No Replacement
The ICC’s communication, believed to have come from its operations or legal department, emphasized that all match official appointments are handled by the ICC itself. Hence, any attempt by PCB to push for Pycroft’s removal would be deemed against protocol.
The ruling also underlined that Pycroft had acted within his responsibilities and had not taken any action that compromised the spirit or neutrality of the contest.
Pakistan vs UAE Clash in Doubt?
The development now casts a spotlight on Pakistan’s upcoming match against the UAE in Dubai on Wednesday. Pycroft has been designated as the match referee for that fixture as well, but the PCB has reportedly taken a public stance that its team will not take the field if Pycroft officiates.
This raises questions about whether the ACC, currently headed by PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi, can intervene and make a late change. But given that umpires and referees are exclusively appointed by the ICC, any alteration would be unprecedented and highly unlikely.
PCB Denies Receiving ICC Communication
Interestingly, when contacted by media outlets, the PCB claimed it has not yet received any official communication from the ICC regarding its request. This denial contrasts with reports suggesting that the board was notified last night.
If PCB sticks to its stand, the situation could escalate into a full-blown standoff, potentially jeopardizing the tournament’s schedule. However, cricketing insiders believe that a compromise solution may be sought to avoid embarrassment for both sides.
The Road Ahead
The Asia Cup has already been marred by tensions surrounding the India-Pakistan rivalry, political undertones, and fans’ call for boycotts. This latest controversy only adds fuel to the fire, especially with Pakistan’s public position against Pycroft.
As things stand, the ICC’s firm stance suggests Pycroft will remain in charge, and the onus will now be on PCB to decide whether to walk out or take the field against the UAE.
