The stage is set for another electrifying India vs Pakistan showdown in the Asia Cup 2025, but the build-up hasn't been without controversy. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has reportedly reappointed Andy Pycroft as the match referee for Sunday’s high-voltage Super Four clash between the arch-rivals at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium - the same venue where the previous "handshakegate" incident unfolded.
ICC Stands Firm on Andy Pycroft Appointment Despite PCB’s Objection
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had previously raised strong objections against Pycroft after he allegedly advised both captains, Suryakumar Yadav and Agha Salman - not to shake hands before or after their previous group-stage meeting on September 14 in Dubai. The PCB claimed that this was against the "spirit of cricket" and even alleged that Pycroft had later apologized.
---Advertisement---
However, the ICC has completely dismissed those claims. In a firm statement, the governing body clarified that no apology was made by Pycroft and that he had not violated any protocols. The ICC fully backed its elite panel official, effectively overruling the PCB's objections.
---Advertisement---
PCB’s Reaction and Fallout
In response to ICC’s decision, the PCB attempted to delay their following match against the United Arab Emirates, negotiating for changes in the match official panel. However, those discussions reportedly went nowhere, and all the PCB could do was delay the match by an hour.
To add to the drama, Pakistani captain Agha Salman had skipped the post-match presentation ceremony after the handshake incident - another moment that added fuel to the controversy.
Now that the situation between the ICC, PCB, and the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) appears to have been resolved, the blockbuster clash between India and Pakistan will proceed as scheduled, with Pycroft continuing in his role.
India and Pakistan: Road to Super Fours
Both India and Pakistan have made it to the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup 2025, but their journeys have been quite different.
India’s Dominant Group Stage Run
Team India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, enters the Super Fours undefeated. They began their campaign by defeating UAE, followed by a commanding win over Pakistan, and most recently overcame Oman in Abu Dhabi by 21 runs. With a balanced squad and consistent performances, India has looked like the most complete side in the tournament so far.
Pakistan’s Inconsistent Form
Pakistan, captained by Agha Salman, had a mixed group stage. While they secured wins over UAE and Oman, their heavy loss to India raised questions about their approach and squad depth. With another clash against their biggest rivals looming, the pressure is mounting on Salman and his team to come up with a stronger strategy.
High Stakes at Dubai International Stadium
The upcoming clash is not just about qualification or bragging rights - it’s also about settling scores, both on and off the field. With the handshake controversy, the PCB-ICC standoff, and both teams now entering the high-stakes Super Four stage, the match has every ingredient of a classic.
India will look to maintain their flawless run and book a place in the final, while Pakistan will be desperate to flip the script and prove their mettle. All eyes will be on Dubai this Sunday, September 21, when two cricketing giants lock horns once again.
Also Read: ‘It’s Time For Entertainment…’ Suryakumar Yadav makes a Bold statement ahead of IND vs PAK clash