PCB Confirms No Final Decision Yet on Asia Cup Participation
ISLAMABAD/DUBAI: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has clarified that no final decision has been made regarding the national team’s participation in the ongoing Asia Cup 2025, following the handshake controversy in their high-profile match against India.
The issue revolves around match referee Andy Pycroft, who officiated the Pakistan-India clash. The PCB has alleged that Pycroft instructed Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha not to exchange handshakes with India’s Suryakumar Yadav and failed to act when Indian players ignored Pakistan players after the match.
Reports suggest that the International Cricket Council (ICC) has dismissed Pakistan’s protest over Pycroft’s conduct. The matter has drawn widespread attention, as Pakistan could face India again in the Super Four stage if they defeat the UAE, and a withdrawal could cost the PCB an estimated $16 million in revenue.
Despite the ongoing controversy, the Pakistan team conducted a training session ahead of today’s Group A match against the UAE, indicating the game will likely proceed as scheduled.
A final decision on Pakistan’s Asia Cup campaign will be made after a meeting between PCB and government officials today.
