Asia Cup 2025: Andy Pycroft to referee India vs Pakistan despite PCB objections

India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, will face Pakistan, led by Salman Ali Agha, in the Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 match at Dubai International Stadium on 21st September, 2025.

Despite PCB’s complaints over the “handshake controversy,” the ICC has decided that Andy Pycroft will again serve as the match referee for the India vs Pakistan Super Four clash.

PCB’s allegations against Andy

Pakistan accused Pycroft of violating the “spirit of the game” by allegedly instructing captains Suryakumar Yadav and Agha Salman not to shake hands during the toss or after the previous India vs Pakistan match.

ICC stand against allegations

The ICC cleared Pycroft of any wrongdoing, confirming he never issued such instructions. It also denied that Pycroft gave any official apology, rejecting PCB’s claims.

PCB’s protested

As retaliation, the PCB reportedly delayed its match against the UAE by one hour to express dissatisfaction with the ICC’s decision.

Dispute resolved

After discussions between ICC, ACC, and PCB, all disputes were settled, ensuring the India vs Pakistan Super Four match will go ahead as scheduled in Dubai.

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