Andy Pycroft removed as match referee from Pakistan’s Asia Cup 2025 fixtures after PCB complaint over India vs Pakistan handshake controversy.
Andy Pycroft Removed After PCB Protest
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed that Andy Pycroft removed from Pakistan’s remaining Asia Cup 2025 matches. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) raised concerns about Pycroft’s conduct in the India vs Pakistan handshake incident during the group stage.
According to PCB, Andy Pycroft as match referee did not allow the traditional Pakistan handshake with Indian players at the toss. PCB stated that the India vs Pakistan no handshake issue went against the spirit of cricket. Following this, PCB demanded ICC replace the match referee for all upcoming Asia Cup 2025 games involving Pakistan.
Threat of Withdrawal Over India vs Pakistan No Handshake Issue
PCB warned ICC that Pakistan would not continue Asia Cup 2025 participation if Andy Pycroft remained as match referee. Media reports said PCB faced the risk of losing USD 16 million in revenues. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi also consulted with senior government officials to plan next steps if the India vs Pakistan handshake controversy was not addressed.
ICC has now decided that Andy Pycroft will not officiate further matches for Pakistan. Sources confirm Richie Richardson is likely to replace the Andy Pycroft match referee role in Pakistan’s next fixture against UAE. Reports also suggest Pycroft will be excluded from Pakistan’s potential Super 4 matches.
The Pakistan handshake row during the India vs Pakistan no handshake controversy has now led to a change in match referee. While ICC’s decision ensures Andy Pycroft removed from Pakistan’s fixtures, the PCB has yet to issue an official statement confirming the final referee appointments for the rest of the tournament.
