(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Asia Cup 2025: PCB Protests Handshake Snub in Pakistan vs India Clash
September 15, 2025
The Pakistan vs India Asia Cup 2025 clash has sparked fresh controversy after both captains skipped the traditional handshake at the toss and players avoided the customary post-match exchange of greetings.
According to reports, the omission was instructed by match referee Andy Pycroft, prompting the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to file a formal complaint with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC).
PCB Lodges Protest
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed the development in a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating:
“The PCB has lodged a complaint with the ICC regarding the match referee’s violation of the ICC Code of Conduct and MCC laws. The match referee took action against the spirit of cricket. We have demanded the immediate removal of Andy Pycroft from the Asia Cup.”
Naqvi, who also serves as the President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), expressed disappointment, calling the directive “a breach of the spirit of cricket.”
Post-Match Drama
After India’s victory — with Suryakumar Yadav scoring 47 not out to chase Pakistan’s 128 in 15.5 overs — the Indian players celebrated among themselves before heading directly to the dressing room, leaving Pakistan’s lineup waiting for the customary handshake.
Head coach Mike Hesson confirmed that Pakistan’s players were expecting the gesture. In response, skipper Salman Ali Agha skipped the post-match presentation ceremony, which is typically mandatory.
Pakistan media manager Naveed Akram Cheema also lodged an official protest with the match referee on behalf of the team.
India’s Response
Addressing the media, India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav defended the move, saying:
“We are aligned with the government and the Board of Control for Cricket in India. Some things are above sportsmanship. That was our answer.”
The incident has fueled debate across cricketing circles, with many terming it a setback to the spirit of the game.
Broader Implications
The handshake controversy has added tension to an already high-voltage rivalry. Analysts note that while on-field performances continue to draw global attention, off-field disputes risk overshadowing the cricket itself.
PCB officials stressed that they are determined to safeguard the honour and prestige of Pakistan cricket and expect the ICC to take prompt action.
