The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued a stern warning that it will withdraw from the Asia Cup if match referee Andy Pycroft is not removed. The board’s threat comes directly in response to the ongoing handshake controversy that erupted during Pakistan’s clash with India in Dubai.
According to PCB insiders, Pycroft allegedly blocked the two captains from engaging in the traditional handshake before the high-voltage game. The handshake controversy has since escalated, with the PCB filing a formal protest with both the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). In its letter, the board described Pycroft’s conduct as a “serious violation” of the ICC Code of Conduct and MCC laws that protect the Spirit of Cricket.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed the protest in posts on X. He declared that the board had demanded Pycroft’s removal and called his behavior “damaging to the integrity of the game.” Naqvi’s remarks added weight to the growing outrage over the handshake dispute, which has overshadowed the tournament itself.
The PCB’s complaint provided detailed claims against Pycroft. Officials allege that he personally told Pakistan’s captain Salman Ali Agha before the toss that “there would be no handshake.” The referee also reportedly instructed Pakistan’s media manager not to record the moment, further fueling the handshake row. According to the board, these actions undermined cricket’s traditions and showed Pycroft’s failure to uphold the responsibilities of his position.
PCB team manager Naveed Akram Cheema also confronted tournament director Andrew Russell after the game. In the meeting, Russell first suggested the directive came from the Indian cricket board. Later, however, he admitted the order had actually come from the Indian government.
The handshake controversy has now become a flashpoint in the Asia Cup, with Pakistan making its strongest stand yet. Unless Andy Pycroft is removed, the PCB insists it will not take part in any further matches.
