According to Indian media reports, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has agreed to Pakistan’s demand to remove match referee Andy Pycroft from officiating in Pakistan’s remaining Asia Cup fixtures. The decision comes after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) raised strong objections over Pycroft’s conduct during the high-profile clash against India.
Accusations of Biased Behavior
The PCB alleged that Pycroft showed partiality in the India-Pakistan match. One of the key points of contention was his refusal to allow the traditional handshake at the toss, which Pakistan argued went against the spirit of the game. The board maintained that such behavior undermines cricket’s values and demanded immediate action from the ICC.
Pakistan’s Threat to Withdraw from the Asia Cup
The situation escalated when the PCB warned that Pakistan would consider boycotting the remaining Asia Cup matches if Pycroft continued as referee. Sources confirmed that PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi even consulted senior government officials to prepare a contingency plan in case the ICC did not meet their demand.
ICC’s Decision Seen as PCB Victory
Reports suggest that the ICC has now removed Andy Pycroft from officiating Pakistan’s upcoming matches, marking a significant win for the PCB and its chairman. The development is being viewed as a diplomatic success for Pakistan, especially given the ongoing controversies surrounding the Asia Cup.
What’s Next for the Tournament?
With Pycroft sidelined, the ICC will appoint alternative referees for Pakistan’s games to ensure the competition proceeds without further disruption. However, the incident has raised serious questions about officiating standards, neutrality, and the growing influence of off-field politics in cricket’s biggest rivalries.
