The uncertainty surrounding Pakistan’s participation in their final Asia Cup 2025 group-stage clash against the UAE took another turn on Wednesday. Despite earlier reports of a boycott, the game is set to go ahead, though the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially requested the contest be delayed by an hour to allow “further talks.” As per the latest updates, Pakistan players have boarded the team bus and left their hotel for the Dubai International Stadium.
This development stems from the fallout of the controversial no-handshake episode against India. The PCB had accused match referee Andy Pycroft of mishandling the situation and demanded his removal from the tournament. While the ICC rejected the request, reports now suggest Richie Richardson has been appointed as referee for the Pakistan-UAE encounter.
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The rift deepened after Pakistan’s seven-wicket loss to India, where the PCB claimed Pycroft acted against the spirit of cricket. In protest, Pakistani media outlets, including Geo News, reported that the team had considered boycotting the must-win game against the UAE—a decision that would have automatically advanced the hosts to the Super Four.
Pakistan Cricket Update 🚨
The PCB has requested the Asia Cup organisers to postpone the UAE-Pakistan match by an hour – hoping to get a positive outcome in the talks.
The team has now left the hotel and is on the way to the ground.
Further developments awaited…… pic.twitter.com/6gMuFkLSkT
— Cricbuzz (@cricbuzz) September 17, 2025
#WATCH | Asia Cup 2025 | Team UAE arrives at Dubai International Cricket Stadium. They are scheduled to take on Pakistan here this evening. pic.twitter.com/d4ieUzX18V
— ANI (@ANI) September 17, 2025
Confusion further intensified when team management initially instructed players to remain in their hotel rooms, halting their departure. Some players had even boarded the bus before being told to return, fueling speculation of a last-minute pullout. However, the squad has since resumed travel to the stadium, signaling the fixture will likely proceed.
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Meanwhile, Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president Mohsin Naqvi is expected to address the media in Lahore later this evening, potentially clarifying the PCB’s stance and the future course of action.
The episode adds another dramatic twist to the Asia Cup 2025, with off-field controversies continuing to overshadow on-field battles.
