The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has formally demanded the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft from the ongoing Asia Cup 2025, following a controversial incident during the India vs Pakistan Group A clash.
The protest stems from Indian players, led by captain Suryakumar Yadav, refusing to participate in the customary post-match handshake with the Pakistani team. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated that the board has filed a complaint with the International Cricket Council (ICC), citing violations of the ICC Code of Conduct and the MCC Laws related to the Spirit of Cricket.
“The PCB has demanded an immediate removal of the Match Referee from the Asia Cup,” Naqvi posted on social media. The board criticized Pycroft’s inaction after the incident, calling it unsporting and unacceptable.
Team manager Naveed Cheema lodged a strong protest, and in response, Pakistan did not send its captain to the post-match ceremony. The PCB emphasized that such behavior undermines the spirit of the game and called for accountability at the officiating level.
The controversy has sparked debate across cricketing circles, with fans and analysts weighing in on the implications for sportsmanship and governance in high-stakes international matches.
