The ICC has turned down Pakistan’s request to replace match referee Andy Pycroft in the Asia Cup 2025 after a handshake controversy with India. Here’s the full story and official reactions.
ICC Turns Down Pakistan’s Request to Replace Match Referee in Asia Cup 2025
ISLAMABAD, September 16, 2025 – The International Cricket Council (ICC) has reportedly rejected Pakistan’s request to remove match referee Andy Pycroft during the Asia Cup 2025 following the highly publicized handshake controversy in the group-stage clash against India.
According to Indian media reports, ICC communicated to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) that the request could not be accommodated, clarifying that the referee had acted on the advice of an Asian Cricket Council (ACC) official present at the ground, not under the influence of the Indian team.
Background of the Handshake Controversy
The row erupted during the Pakistan vs India match on September 14 at Dubai International Stadium, where India defeated Pakistan by seven wickets.
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At the pre-match toss, Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav reportedly refused to shake hands with Pakistan’s captain.
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After the match, Indian players also avoided the customary handshake with the Pakistani side.
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Pakistan lodged a formal protest, terming the conduct a violation of sportsmanship and warning of a possible boycott of future Asia Cup fixtures if the referee was not changed.
This incident follows an earlier controversy when Suryakumar Yadav was criticized by Indian fans for shaking hands with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi during a previous match in Dubai.
ICC and BCCI Response
While the PCB insisted that referee Andy Pycroft was biased, the ICC maintained that the decision-making was guided by an ACC official at the venue.
A senior official of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) downplayed the row, stating:
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“There is no rule in cricket that obligates players to shake hands with opponents. It is a goodwill gesture, not a legal requirement.”
The BCCI further emphasized that given the historically strained relations between the two countries, the Indian team was not bound to follow the handshake tradition.
Pakistan’s Position
The PCB has expressed strong disappointment, arguing that avoiding the handshake breached the spirit of the game. Officials believe that such conduct undermines cricket’s reputation as a sport built on respect and fair play.
The PCB is expected to raise the issue formally with the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) during the next executive meeting.
What Happens Next?
Despite the controversy, the Asia Cup 2025 continues as scheduled. Both teams are expected to face each other again if they qualify for the Super Four stage. Whether Pakistan escalates its protest or continues participation will become clearer in the coming days.
FAQs – Asia Cup 2025 Handshake Controversy
Q1: Why did Pakistan request the referee’s removal?
Pakistan accused match referee Andy Pycroft of being biased during the handshake dispute.
Q2: How did the ICC respond?
The ICC rejected the request, clarifying that decisions were guided by an ACC official, not the Indian team.
Q3: Was India obligated to shake hands?
No. According to BCCI, there is no law in cricket mandating handshakes; it is considered a goodwill tradition.
Q4: Will Pakistan boycott future Asia Cup matches?
The PCB has warned of a boycott, but no final decision has been made yet.
Q5: What was the match result?
India defeated Pakistan by seven wickets in the group-stage game at Dubai International Stadium.
Conclusion
The Asia Cup 2025 handshake row has added another layer of tension to the already high-stakes rivalry between Pakistan and India. With the ICC refusing Pakistan’s request to remove the referee, the controversy highlights the sensitivity of Indo-Pak cricket relations both on and off the field.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes remain on whether this row will escalate further or be resolved quietly through cricket’s governing bodies.