ICC Referee under scrutiny in 2025 India-Pakistan Asia Cup match handshake controversy involving Andy Pycroft
In the world of cricket, the Asia Cup 2025 has been marred by a significant controversy, with former Zimbabwean cricketer and current match referee, Andy Pycroft, finding himself at the centre of the storm.
Born on June 6, 1956, Pycroft made history as a member of Zimbabwe's first-ever Cricket World Cup team in 1983 and later captained the national team in limited-overs matches. After retiring, Pycroft has officiated over 100 Test matches as an ICC match referee since 2009, earning him a respected position in the cricket community.
However, during the Asia Cup, Pycroft's handling of a handshake incident between India and Pakistan has caused a stir. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has accused Pycroft of favouring India, citing his decision not to enforce the customary pre- and post-match handshakes between the two teams.
The incident occurred during the match between India and Pakistan, a game marked by controversy from the start. The PCB has further alleged that Pycroft's actions went against the traditions and rules of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC).
The International Cricket Council (ICC), however, has stood by their referee, dismissing the PCB's complaints. Despite the controversy, Pycroft remains the match referee for the Asia Cup.
The Pakistani team, who suffered a loss in the match, are reportedly unhappy with Pycroft's decision. The team's captain, Salman Ali Agha, was informed by Pycroft at the toss that there wouldn't be any handshakes during the match.
The PCB has requested the removal of Pycroft as match referee for the remaining Asia Cup matches, a request that remains to be seen. As the tournament continues, the focus remains on this controversial incident and the role of Pycroft in it.
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