Pakistan complained to the ICC about the TV umpire’s decision ruling Fakhar Zaman out on a disputed catch against India.
The tensions date back to India-Pakistan matches where Indian players refused to shake hands, prompting the PCB to accuse match referee Andy Pycroft of failing to enforce sportsmanship.
The ICC rejected Pakistan’s demands to remove referee Andy Pycroft and warned the PCB about violations of tournament rules.
PCB threatened to boycott the tournament, staying in hotel rooms before a match against UAE, but eventually participated to avoid financial losses (~Rs. 140 crore / US$16 million).
Pakistani players drew criticism for controversial gestures, including Haris Rauf’s “6-0” gesture and Sahibzada Farhan’s bat celebration, which were seen as politically charged.
Overall, Pakistan’s repeated complaints and controversial actions during the Asia Cup 2025 have made them a growing concern for the ICC, overshadowing cricket with politics.