PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi has reportedly complained to the Jay Shah-led ICC to take action against the Match referee of the India vs Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup 2025. They have now reportedly threatened to boycott the next Asia Cup fixture against the UAE if their demands are not met.
The India vs Pakistan match, which marked a lack of game spirit, empty seats at the Dubai International Stadium, and unfriendliness among the players, has led to outrage in the world of cricket.
Though Indians look content with the behaviour, the Pakistani side has been left humiliated not only by the tragic loss but also by the conduct of their opponents.
Your daily dose of cricket!
PCB Chief files a complaint against the match referee with the ICC
After the handshake row controversy, the Pakistan players, management, and fans looked dejected. However, the Indians were relieved by the actions, as they could do something that was in their control in the contest. India had to comply with the Indian government rules to play against Pakistan, but to maintain the spirit was not an obligation.
The Indian players opted to refuse handshakes or any friendly conduct with the Pakistan players in the aftermath of the Pahalgam attacks. After the match, the PCB Chief, Mohsin Naqvi, lodged a complaint over the Match referee.
The referee, Andy Pycroft, has also been accused of telling the two skippers—India’s Suryakumar Yadav and Pakistan’s Salman Ali Agha—not to shake hands at the toss, as per Cricbuzz.
PCB threatens to boycott the next Asia Cup match if demands are not met
The latest reports have revealed that the PCB Chief, Mohsin Naqvi, has not only confined himself to filing a complaint but has also threatened the ICC to ensure that their demands are being met.
Reports have learned that the PCB has threatened to boycott its next Asia Cup game against the unofficial hosts, the United Arab Emirates, if Andy Pycroft is not sacked. Naqvi has clearly stated the board’s stand if their demands are not met by the International body.
Pakistan won their first game in the tournament, but then faced a crushing defeat against India. However, they have to ensure a win against the UAE in the final group-stage game to advance into the Super-4 stage.
Rules Violated by India and Pakistan in the ICC Preamble—The Spirit of Cricket
The Indian team, which has been led by the skipper Suryakumar Yadav, walked straight out of the ground into the dressing room. After finishing the game, Suryakumar, alongside Shivam Dube, shook hands, pumped their fists, and left the ground.
After this incident, several questions have been raised on whether India should be penalised for their act. According to some reports, no direct sanctions can be made against the Indian skipper.
According to the rules based on the ICC Preamble—Spirit of Cricket, players are supposed to congratulate the opposition on their success and enjoy those of their own team. ‘Thank the officials and your opposition at the end of the match,’ which remains the only rule violated during the match.
ALSO READ: Suryakumar Yadav to be banned after Pahalgam statement, handshake snub vs Pakistan? Report reveals
