Pakistan to Boycott Remaining Asia Cup 2025 Matches Over Referee Dispute
Lahore: Pakistan is considering boycotting the remaining Asia Cup 2025 fixtures unless the International Cricket Council (ICC) removes match referee Andy Pycroft.
The dispute arose during the high-pressure Pakistan vs India clash, when Pycroft allegedly instructed captain Salman Ali Agha not to shake hands at the toss. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) claims this directive was a direct violation of ICC regulations and the Spirit of Cricket.
In response, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed that the board has lodged a formal complaint with the ICC and MCC, demanding Pycroft’s immediate removal from officiating in the tournament.
“Pakistan’s participation in the remaining Asia Cup matches depends on corrective measures by the ICC,” insiders revealed.
The controversy has fueled speculation over Pakistan’s next steps, with officials stressing that Pycroft’s actions “undermined fair play” and cast a shadow over the tournament’s integrity.
Earlier, team manager Naveed Akram Cheema also lodged a protest over the Indian team’s refusal to shake hands after the match. He said the conduct was “against sportsmanship” and noted that captain Salman Ali Agha boycotted the post-match ceremony in protest.
The standoff has now created serious uncertainty over Pakistan’s future fixtures in the Asia Cup 2025, putting tournament organizers under mounting pressure.
Mohsin Naqvi demands removal of ICC match referee after Asia Cup controversy
