Match Referee Controversy: Will Pakistan Boycott the Remainder of Asia Cup?
Islamabad: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has lodged an official complaint with the International Cricket Council (ICC) against match referee Andy Pycroft over alleged unfair conduct and violations of the spirit of cricket during the high-voltage Asia Cup clash against India.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, in a statement on social media, said that the ICC has been informed about the referee’s breach of the code of conduct and MCC laws. He demanded Pycroft’s immediate removal from the Asia Cup, warning that Pakistan will boycott the tournament if the referee is not replaced.
The PCB has lodged a complaint with the ICC regarding violations by the Match Referee of the ICC Code of Conduct and the MCC Laws pertaining to the Spirit of Cricket. The PCB has demanded an immediate removal of the Match Referee from the Asia Cup.
— Mohsin Naqvi (@MohsinnaqviC42) September 15, 2025
On Sunday, India defeated Pakistan by seven wickets, with spinner Kuldeep Yadav starring in the victory. It was the first meeting between the two sides since a military clash in May.
Utterly disappointing to witness the lack of sportsmanship today. Dragging politics into the game goes against the very spirit of sports. Lets hope future victories are celebrated by all teams with grace
— Mohsin Naqvi (@MohsinnaqviC42) September 14, 2025
After sealing the win, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav dedicated the victory to the Indian Army and expressed solidarity with the families affected by the Pahalgam attack.
Controversy deepened when Indian players refused to shake hands with the Pakistani team after the match. In protest, Pakistan’s captain Salman Ali Agha skipped the post-match presentation ceremony. Head coach Mike Hesson stated that the Pakistani side was ready for the customary handshake, but the refusal came from the Indian players, undermining the traditional spirit of the game.
The PCB has demanded the immediate removal of the referee to ensure cricket’s neutrality and preserve the values of sportsmanship.
