PCB to Decide on Asia Cup Participation Amid Handshake Controversy
Dubai, September 17, 2025 — The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced that a final decision regarding the national team’s participation in the Asia Cup 2025 will be taken on Wednesday, following the recent handshake controversy during the match against India.
PCB spokesperson Amir Mir said late Tuesday that no decision had been made yet, adding:
“Consultations are ongoing in this regard, and a final decision will be made by tomorrow. The decision will be made keeping Pakistan’s interests in view.”
The statement came after meetings between board and government officials in Islamabad.
Press Conference Cancelled
Ahead of their final Group A fixture against hosts UAE, Pakistan decided not to hold a pre-match press conference. However, the team proceeded with its training session in Dubai.
The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) confirmed the cancellation in a short message, while the PCB awaits a response from the International Cricket Council (ICC) regarding its protest about match referee Andy Pycroft.
The Controversy
The issue stems from Sunday’s high-profile match against India, where reports claimed the Indian players declined to shake hands with Pakistan. The PCB also alleged that Pycroft advised Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha not to engage in the customary handshake with Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav.
Pakistan lodged a formal complaint, stating that match sheets were also not exchanged between the captains as per usual practice.
According to Indian media reports, the ICC has rejected PCB’s request to replace Pycroft, who is scheduled to officiate in Pakistan’s next match against the UAE.
Financial and Tournament Implications
If Pakistan withdraws from the tournament, reports suggest the board could face revenue losses of up to $16 million. To avoid escalation, the PCB is reportedly exploring a compromise, suggesting another referee — possibly Richie Richardson — for their upcoming fixtures.
If Pakistan secures a win against the UAE, they will once again meet India in the next round on Sunday.
