Pakistan cancel pre-match press conference ahead of UAE clash amid 2025 Asia Cup controversy

Pakistan have cancelled their pre-match press conference ahead of their crucial Group A clash against the UAE in the ongoing Asia Cup, following threats to withdraw from the tournament over match referee Andy Pycroft’s presence. The decision has fueled speculation about a potential protest or even a withdrawal from the competition.

The team was scheduled to address the media on the evening of September 16, but the briefing was abruptly called off without any official explanation. Despite the cancellation, reports indicate that the players are still expected to train as planned. Pakistan now prepares for their do-or-die group match against the UAE on September 17, a fixture that could determine their progression in the tournament.

Pakistan’s latest actions follow the International Cricket Council (ICC) formally rejecting the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) request on September 16 to remove Pycroft from the panel of match officials. The PCB had filed a complaint alleging that Pycroft instructed Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha not to shake hands with India’s Suryakumar Yadav at the toss. Pycroft is also scheduled to officiate Pakistan’s final group stage game against the UAE on Wednesday, 

Pakistan team manager Naved Cheema lodged a separate complaint with the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), claiming Pycroft’s instructions prevented the exchange of team sheets between the two captains. Following India’s seven-wicket victory, Suryakumar and his teammates refrained from shaking hands with Pakistan in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack.

Sources indicate the controversy was worsened by PCB’s Director of Cricket Operations, Usman Walha, who reportedly failed to brief Agha on tournament rules, leaving the captain unprepared. PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as ACC chairman, reportedly sacked Walha over the embarrassment caused to the team.

While the PCB initially demanded Pycroft’s removal, the ICC’s rejection has left the board exploring alternative solutions. One proposal under consideration is having Richie Richardson stand in as match referee for Pakistan’s clash with the UAE, though its feasibility remains uncertain.