The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has formally demanded the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft from the Asia Cup 2025, alleging violations of the ICC Code of Conduct during their high-voltage clash against India. The development was confirmed by PCB and Asian Cricket Council head Mohsin Naqvi on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, September 15.
Tensions flared during the India-Pakistan group-stage encounter, as Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav refused to shake hands with his Pakistani counterpart Salman Ali Agha at the toss. The situation escalated after India’s seven-wicket win, with the Men in Blue skipping the customary post-match handshakes with Pakistan.
Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha boycotted the post-match presentation ceremony in protest of the Indian team’s actions, further intensifying the controversy. According to PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, the board has lodged an official complaint with the ICC, citing breaches of both the UCC Code of Conduct and the MCC Laws relating to the Spirit of Cricket.
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The PCB specifically highlighted that match referee Andy Pycroft allegedly advised Agha not to shake hands with the Indian captain during the toss, which they say constitutes a serious violation of the spirit of sportsmanship.
“The PCB has complained to the ICC regarding a violation by the Match Referee of the UCC Code of Conduct and the MCC Laws about the Spirit of Cricket. The PCB has demanded an immediate removal of the Match Referee from the Asia Cup,” Mohsin Naqvi tweeted. The statement further noted, “Salman Ali Agha skipped the post-match presentation in protest against the behaviour of the Indian team, as the ceremony host was also an Indian.”
Under ICC regulations, teams are expected to congratulate their opponents at the end of every match, as outlined in Article 2 of the Code of Conduct. The Preamble of the ICC Standard Test Match, ODI, and T20I Playing Conditions emphasises that cricket should be played not only according to the Laws but also within the Spirit of Cricket.
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Respect forms the cornerstone of the Spirit of Cricket, with players required to show regard for their captains, teammates, opponents, and umpires. Fair play, self-discipline, and creating a positive atmosphere on the field are responsibilities shared by all players, coaches, and officials. The PCB’s formal complaint underscores the belief that these principles were breached, and they are seeking urgent action from the ICC regarding Pycroft’s role in the contentious India-Pakistan encounter.
