Former Pakistan captain and ex-PCB chairman Ramiz Raja has openly questioned the neutrality of ICC match referee Andy Pycroft after the ongoing Asia Cup 2025 handshake controversy. Speaking at a joint press conference alongside PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, Raja went as far as calling Pycroft a “favourite for the Indians,” sparking further debate in the cricketing fraternity.

The controversy stems from India’s seven-wicket victory over Pakistan on September 14, their first meeting since the Pahalgam terror attack. While many urged the BCCI to boycott the game, India chose to compete, but skipper Suryakumar Yadav and his teammates refused to shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts. Surya avoided a handshake with Salman Ali Agha at the toss, later explaining that the stance was taken under the advice of the Indian government and BCCI.

The PCB lodged a formal complaint soon after, alleging that Andy Pycroft had stopped Salman Agha from extending a handshake to Suryakumar. Pakistan demanded Pycroft’s removal from the tournament, even threatening to pull out of their must-win game against the UAE. The ICC, however, rejected Pakistan’s appeal twice and stood firm on allowing Pycroft to continue.

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The standoff delayed Pakistan’s game against the UAE by an hour, as the PCB awaited instructions from Islamabad on whether to continue in the competition.

Ramiz Raja then intensified the matter by accusing Andy Pycroft of bias towards India, pointing out that the Zimbabwean has officiated in more than 90 Indian matches. “Andy Pycroft is the favourite for the Indians. Whenever I host tosses, he’s always there. It doesn’t feel neutral,” Raja said. He further argued that a referee’s role is meant to maintain balance, but Pycroft’s repeated presence in Indian games raised suspicions.

Raja also criticised Suryakumar Yadav’s post-match remarks, where the Indian captain dedicated the win to the Indian Armed Forces and referenced the Pahalgam attack.

“My biggest objection was what was said at the post-match presentation. If cricket becomes a political stage, then nothing can be achieved. I hope our team focuses on the game and not these distractions,” Ramiz Raja added.

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Despite the off-field drama, Pakistan managed to bounce back on the field. Against the UAE, Shaheen Afridi’s quickfire 29* off 14 balls lifted Pakistan to 146/9 after a shaky start at 93/6. Their bowlers then dominated, dismissing the UAE for 105 in 17.5 overs to seal a 41-run win and book a Super Four clash against India.