Andy Pycroft handshake controversy: In the aftermath of the post-match handshake controversy between India and Pakistan during the Asia Cup 2025, senior Indian cricketer and former off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has come out in support of ICC match referee Andy Pycroft. Ashwin dismissed Pakistan’s criticism of the referee, stating that Pycroft is not a “school teacher” but a professional simply carrying out his duties to prevent an unnecessary spectacle.
India vs Pakistan Handshake Row: What Really Happened?
The controversy erupted last Sunday following India’s win over Pakistan in a high-octane Asia Cup clash. Contrary to the traditional gesture of sportsmanship, the Indian players did not partake in the post-match handshake, sparking backlash from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). The PCB alleged that this act violated the spirit of cricket.
However, it later emerged that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had pre-informed the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) of their decision to skip the handshake ceremony. Match referee Andy Pycroft, who was in charge during the match, had merely communicated this to Pakistan’s captain Salman Ali Agha before the toss.
PCB’s Complaint and ICC’s Response
Despite being informed beforehand, the PCB lodged two official complaints with the ICC, first demanding Pycroft’s removal from the tournament and then asking for him to be excluded from officiating Pakistan’s future matches. The ICC rejected both requests, affirming their support for Pycroft, who is a senior member of the ICC Elite Panel of referees.
In protest, Pakistan delayed their next game against the UAE by an hour, and even threatened to withdraw from the Asia Cup. However, they later chose to continue in the tournament.
Ashwin Defends Pycroft, Calls for Perspective
Speaking on the issue, Ashwin emphasized that Pycroft was being unfairly targeted. “He’s a match referee, not a school teacher. His job is to ensure protocols are followed and prevent unnecessary drama on the field. He did exactly that,” Ashwin said in a recent media interaction.
With another high-stakes India vs Pakistan clash scheduled today, the spotlight is not just on the players but also on the match officials. The build-up to this marquee fixture is now layered with off-field tensions, making it one of the most anticipated showdowns of the tournament.
