The “no-handshake” controversy and Pakistan’s protest over match referee Andy Pycroft’s role have thrown the team’s Asia Cup participation in the UAE into uncertainty.
The row forced Pakistan to cancel its scheduled pre-match press conference on Tuesday, though the team later held a closed-door practice session at the ICC Academy, avoiding any media interaction.
ICC Stands Firm Against PCB’s Demand
Sources confirmed to Telecom Asia Sport (www.telecomasia.net) that the International Cricket Council (ICC) has rejected Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) request to remove Pycroft from officiating in the Asia Cup, citing the need to protect the integrity of their officials.
PCB had earlier written to the ICC, protesting Pycroft’s instructions to skipper Salman Agha at the toss in the high-voltage India-Pakistan clash in Dubai on Sunday—where Pakistan was informed of a “no-handshake” directive.
The ICC has made it clear that Pycroft will continue as match referee. They will not alter their protocols for this issue.
Naqvi finds himself in a difficult position, as he is also the ACC President. A boycott would undermine his own standing within the organization.
Waseem Khan Steps In
Interestingly, ICC General Manager of Cricket Waseem Khan—a British citizen of Pakistani origin and former PCB Chief Operating Officer (2018–2021)—is personally handling the matter.
Meanwhile, Asian Cricket Council (ACC) officials are also engaging directly with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. ACC Vice President Pankaj Khimji of Oman even phoned Naqvi, urging Pakistan not to withdraw from the tournament.
High-Level Talks Underway in Islamabad
On Tuesday, Naqvi held high-level consultations with Pakistan’s Foreign Office and was expected to meet Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif to decide on the country’s next steps in the Asia Cup saga.
