The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially rejected the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) request to remove match referee Andy Pycroft from officiating in the ongoing Asia Cup 2025. This decision follows a formal complaint lodged by the PCB, alleging that Pycroft instructed Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha not to shake hands with Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav during the toss, a customary gesture in cricket.
The PCB’s complaint also accused Pycroft of violating the ICC Code of Conduct and the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) Laws concerning the Spirit of Cricket. Despite these allegations, the ICC has upheld Pycroft’s appointment, stating that he will continue to officiate in the tournament.
This development has intensified tensions between the PCB and the ICC, with the PCB threatening to withdraw from the tournament if their demand was not met. However, the ICC’s stance suggests that the match referee will remain in his role for the remainder of the Asia Cup.
