Following a nail-biting standoff with the ICC, Pakistan finally agreed to field for their Asia Cup 2025 match against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) after withdrawing its threat to boycott the fixture. The match, however, was delayed by an hour amidst a controversy surrounding the presence of match referee Andy Pycroft, who continued to officiate despite insisting on repeated objections from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
ICC Stands by Pycroft’s Appointment
ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta spoke to PCB chairman and Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chief Mohsin Naqvi directly in a conference call, affirming that Pycroft would remain in his position. In accordance with the ICC, the Zimbabwean official had adhered to every regulation and rule, and therefore there was no ground for taking him off.
PCB’s Allegations: Toss Controversy Sparks Outrage
The PCB charged Pycroft with indiscipline during the high-voltage India vs Pakistan match on September 14, claiming that he prevented Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha from shaking hands with Suryakumar Yadav and stopped both captains from exchanging team sheets during the toss. The PCB alleged these actions were against the Spirit of Cricket and violated the ICC Code of Conduct.
Timeline of Events Shared by ICC Source
A source at the ICC revealed the developments behind the scenes to NDTV:
Initial Complaint (Sept 15): The PCB had filed a formal complaint detailing the toss incident as a conduct breach, calling for Pycroft’s expulsion.
ICC Internal Review: A prompt review determined that Pycroft had merely passed on instructions from tournament organisers to keep order during the toss. The ICC did not find anything wrong and communicated these findings to the PCB.
Increased Pressure by PCB & ACC: In spite of the ICC’s findings, both the PCB and subsequently the ACC insisted on Pycroft being replaced. The ICC refused to back down, claiming there were no proper reasons to remove him.
Face-to-Face Meeting: At Pycroft’s own behest, a meeting was conducted with the Pakistan captain, team manager, and Pycroft himself. Pycroft showed regret for any miscommunication, stating that he had only conveyed instructions and had not acted beyond his brief.
Follow-up Complaint (Sept 17): PCB repeated the request for an official inquiry into the incident and other incidents that followed. The ICC requested particular evidence and is yet to receive supporting documents.
Also Read: IRE vs ENG: Phil Salt powers England towards victory over Ireland in 1st T20I
Where Things Stand Now
In spite of the controversy, Pakistan did play the match against the UAE, winning and qualifying for the stage of the Super Four. The tensions between the PCB and ICC, however, remain unsettled, awaiting further communication and evidence regarding the alleged Code of Conduct breaches.
