LAHORE (Abdul Basit): The looming threat of Pakistan’s boycott of the Asia Cup 2025 was averted on Wednesday after ICC match referee Andy Pycroft issued an unconditional apology to Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha and team manager for his controversial conduct during the high-voltage clash against India.
The controversy stemmed from the September 14 match when Pycroft barred the traditional handshake between Pakistan and Indian captains at the toss and later drew PCB’s ire for overlooking Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav’s political remarks at the toss and in the post-match press conference. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had demanded Pycroft’s removal and formal action against Yadav for bringing politics into cricket.
The Pakistan team, which had delayed its departure for the second Asia Cup fixture against the UAE at Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Wednesday, only proceeded after PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s approval from Lahore. The delay pushed the start of the match by nearly an hour.
In a development confirmed by PCB and captured in a video released by the board, Pycroft offered his apology in the presence of ICC General Manager (Cricket) Wasim Khan at the venue. While the PCB’s demand for Pycroft’s immediate replacement could not be met due to the unavailability of alternative referee Sir Richie Richardson, the ICC assured that Yadav’s remarks would be reviewed by a committee.
Addressing a press conference at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, Chairman Mohsin Naqvi—flanked by former chairmen Ramiz Raja and Najam Sethi—termed the episode a “victory of principle” and asserted that Pakistan’s honour had been safeguarded. “The ICC’s match referee, Andy Pycroft, has apologised to the manager and captain of the Pakistan team,” Naqvi said. “We have also been assured that an inquiry will be conducted into Suryakumar Yadav’s political rhetoric, which has no place in cricket.”
Former chairman Ramiz Raja strongly criticised Yadav’s conduct, expressing disappointment over politics being dragged into the game. “Cricket should remain cricket, not a political platform,” he said. Raja also questioned Pycroft’s repeated appointments in matches involving India, noting that the referee had already officiated in nearly 90 of their fixtures.
Najam Sethi reiterated PCB’s longstanding stance, saying the board would continue to oppose the politicisation of sports.
The resolution means Pakistan will continue its Asia Cup campaign, avoiding what could have been a major disruption to the tournament. With the handshake row now formally addressed, all eyes return to on-field performances as the men in green aim to refocus on cricketing battles ahead.
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