Andy Pycroft, the match referee embroiled in the controversial handshake incident during the Pakistan-India group stage match, will once again officiate when the two teams face each other in the Asia Cup Super Four encounter on Sunday.
According to Cricinfo, the controversy erupted on September 14 when players of both sides, including the captains at the toss, refrained from shaking hands. Pakistan’s head coach later revealed that Pycroft had instructed national captain Salman Agha not to shake hands with his Indian counterpart, sparking outrage in the cricketing fraternity.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) lodged a strong protest with the International Cricket Council (ICC), even threatening to boycott their match against the UAE. Following the backlash, Pycroft apologised to the Pakistan captain, allowing the tournament to proceed smoothly.
Ahead of Sunday’s crucial clash in Dubai, the Pakistan team has cancelled its scheduled press conference and has enlisted the services of a psychologist to boost performance and morale.
