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Controversy Surrounding India-Pakistan Encounter at Asia Cup 2025: Pakistan Cricket Board Sends a Second Letter to International Cricket Council Over the Internal Shake Dispute

Demands Persist for Pycroft's Removal, Reinforced by PCB

Tensionpersists between India and Pakistan in the 2025 Asia Cup tournament, as the Pakistan Cricket...
Tensionpersists between India and Pakistan in the 2025 Asia Cup tournament, as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) sends a second letter to the International Cricket Council (ICC) regarding the ongoing handshake dispute.

Controversy Surrounding India-Pakistan Encounter at Asia Cup 2025: Pakistan Cricket Board Sends a Second Letter to International Cricket Council Over the Internal Shake Dispute

The PCB has found itself in a contentious situation during the Asia Cup 2025, with the organisation calling for the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft for the remaining games. This demand comes in the wake of an alleged refusal of Indian players to shake hands with the Pakistan team following a match, which sparked a row between the Asian cricket boards.

Despite the controversy, Pakistan's training session at Dubai Stadium went ahead as planned, with the team preparing for their crucial match against the UAE later today. However, the post-match presentation was skipped by Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha in protest, while coach Mike Hesson attended the press conference.

The PCB has sent a second letter to the ICC requesting the replacement of Pycroft with former West Indian cricket captain and ICC match referee, Richie Richardson. It is unclear whether Richardson will replace Pycroft, as both have been active officials in the tournament.

The ICC, as of now, has not acted on the PCB's request. The Asia Cup 2025, set to be hosted by the UAE, is scheduled to continue, with Pycroft still scheduled to officiate Pakistan's match against the UAE later this evening.

The PCB is currently in consultations regarding its participation in the Asia Cup. The organisation will make a final decision on its participation today, with the national interest being the guiding principle. If Pakistan wins their must-win game against the UAE, they will face India again in the Super Four stage on September 21 in Dubai.

This article is part of a news package containing updates on the Asia Cup 2025, Pakistan, and the ICC. The PCB's initial appeal to remove Pycroft from the Asia Cup has been rejected, but the organisation remains firm in its stance. The ongoing dispute serves as a reminder of the complexities and tensions that can arise in international sporting events.

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