Will Pakistan Boycott the Asia Cup After ICC Rejects Their Appeal?
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Synopsis
As tensions rise over the 'no handshake controversy', Pakistan's participation in the 2025 Men's T20 Asia Cup against the UAE hangs in the balance. The cancellation of their pre-match press conference has intensified speculation about their future in the tournament. What are the implications for Pakistan cricket?
Key Takeaways
- Pakistan's participation in the Asia Cup is uncertain due to the 'no handshake controversy'.
- The ICC has rejected PCB's appeal to remove match referee Andy Pycroft.
- Pakistan conducted practice sessions despite canceling the press conference.
- Key discussions are ongoing between PCB and Asian Cricket Council officials.
- Mohsin Naqvi faces a dilemma due to his dual role in cricket administration.
Dubai, Sep 16 (NationPress) Concerns regarding Pakistan's involvement in their forthcoming match in the 2025 Men's T20 Asia Cup against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) escalated on Tuesday following the cancellation of their pre-match press briefing. The management of the Pakistan team opted to forgo this press conference after the ICC dismissed their grievance regarding the Indian players' refusal to shake hands with the Pakistan team and the role of match referee Andy Pycroft in this matter, as reported by Telecom Asia Sport.
The cancellation has raised further questions about Pakistan's continued participation in the Asia Cup held in the UAE. Despite this, the team engaged in practice at the ICC Academy during the night, choosing not to send any representatives to the media.
Sources informed Telecom Asia Sport that the International Cricket Council (ICC) has communicated to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) that their request for Pycroft's removal from the Asia Cup has been denied, as they seek to maintain the integrity of their match officials.
According to reports, the PCB had submitted a letter to the ICC protesting Pycroft's actions when he informed Pakistan's captain, Salman Agha, that handshakes would not occur at the toss during the India-Pakistan match in Dubai on Sunday.
"The ICC has indicated that Pycroft will remain as match referee," sources told www.telecomasia.net. "The ICC adheres to its protocols and will not amend them in this matter."
Interestingly, Waseem Khan, the ICC General Manager of Cricket, is overseeing the situation. He is a British national of Pakistani heritage and previously served as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the PCB from 2018 to 2021.
The report also mentioned that senior officials from the Asian Cricket Council are in touch with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, with ACC Vice President Pankaj Khimji from Oman reaching out to Naqvi to persuade him against boycotting the regional event.
According to PCB sources, "Naqvi is in a difficult position as he also serves as the president of the ACC, and boycotting the event would contradict his role."
Naqvi held crucial discussions with the foreign office on Tuesday and was anticipated to meet with PM Shahbaz Sharif to determine the next steps.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the significant implications this controversy has on Pakistan cricket. The Pakistan Cricket Board's stance reflects the nation's pride and competitive spirit. However, maintaining relations within the cricketing community is essential for the growth of the sport in the region.
NationPress
07/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'no handshake controversy'?
The 'no handshake controversy' refers to the incident during the India-Pakistan match where Indian players declined to shake hands with the Pakistan team, leading to a formal protest from the Pakistan Cricket Board.
What was the ICC's response to PCB's appeal?
The ICC rejected the PCB's request to remove match referee Andy Pycroft, stating that their protocols will remain unchanged.
How has this controversy affected Pakistan's participation in the Asia Cup?
The cancellation of the pre-match press conference has raised doubts about Pakistan's further participation in the Asia Cup amidst ongoing tensions.
Who is involved in negotiating with the PCB?
Officials from the Asian Cricket Council and ACC Vice President Pankaj Khimji have been in contact with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi to encourage participation in the event.
What steps is PCB taking regarding this issue?
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi is in discussions with government officials and is expected to meet with Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif to decide on the future course of action.
