Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has confirmed that ICC match referee Andy Pycroft apologised to the team management over the much-discussed handshake controversy during the Asia Cup 2025 clash against India. Naqvi described the apology as a step that “preserved Pakistan’s honour,” while stressing that the team must now focus on delivering consistent performances on the field.
The controversy began after India refused to shake hands with Pakistan players during their group-stage fixture on September 14 in Dubai. Following this, the PCB accused Pycroft of barring the customary handshake at the toss and demanded his immediate removal as match referee. The board even threatened to boycott the UAE clash if their demand wasn’t met.
On Wednesday, just hours before their crucial encounter against the UAE, the PCB released a muted video showing Captain Salman Ali Agha, Head Coach Mike Hesson, and Team Manager Naveed Akram Cheema in a discussion with Andy Pycroft. According to the board, this interaction included Pycroft’s apology.
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Despite the apology, the drama impacted the match build-up. The Pakistan vs UAE game was delayed by an hour as Mohsin Naqvi held consultations with former PCB chiefs Ramiz Raja and Najam Sethi over a potential boycott. Pulling out would have ended Pakistan’s Asia Cup campaign, but eventually the team took the field.
Speaking at a press briefing at Gaddafi Stadium, Naqvi revealed that the PCB had also submitted a formal request to the ICC to investigate the incidents during the India-Pakistan match. “The match referee apologised to the captain and team manager. We have officially asked the ICC to look into the violations that took place on September 14,” Naqvi said. He further added, “Thank God, Pakistan’s honour has been preserved. Now the focus must be on strong performances.”
Sources within the PCB confirmed that the ICC has agreed to conduct an inquiry into the matter, though Pycroft continued in his role and officiated Pakistan’s match against the UAE.
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On the field, Pakistan secured a much-needed 41-run victory, advancing to the Super Four stage. Batting first, they posted 146 for 9, with Fakhar Zaman anchoring the innings with a 36-ball 50, while Shaheen Shah Afridi played a fiery cameo of 29* off 14 balls. In response, the UAE faltered against Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack. Spinner Abrar Ahmed impressed with figures of 2 for 13, while Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf picked up two wickets each. The hosts were bundled out for 105 in 17.4 overs, giving Pakistan momentum heading into the next stage.
