Pakistan Cricket Board Suspends Director Usman Wahla Over Delayed Complaint Against Match Referee
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has suspended its Director of International Cricket, Usman Wahla, following the handshake controversy during the Asia Cup 2025 match between India and Pakistan. The suspension comes amid PCB’s dissatisfaction with Wahla’s delayed formal complaint against match referee Andy Pycroft for his role in the incident.
What Happened During the Handshake Controversy?
- At the toss and post-match moments, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav and teammate Shivam Dube did not shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts, sparking tensions on the field.
- Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha was reportedly instructed by referee Pycroft not to shake hands with Yadav, which escalated the controversy.
- After India’s seven-wicket win, Indian players exited directly to their dressing room while Pakistani players waited on the field to shake hands, leading to widespread criticism and diplomatic fallout.
PCB’s Response and Official Actions
- The PCB officially lodged a complaint with the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), demanding the immediate removal of match referee Andy Pycroft.
- The complaint cited violations of the ICC Code of Conduct and the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) Laws, specifically concerning the Spirit of Cricket.
- PCB spokesperson Naqvi confirmed the complaint on X (formerly Twitter), emphasizing that Pycroft’s conduct breached the ethics of the game.
Why Was Usman Wahla Suspended?
- Reports from ASports revealed that Wahla was suspended due to his failure to file a timely formal complaint against Pycroft’s handling of the handshake incident.
- The PCB was “unhappy” with Wahla’s delay in responding to the match referee’s actions and India’s behavior on the field.
- Wahla’s suspension highlights the PCB’s intent to demonstrate strict accountability within its management.
Political Tensions and Background
- The handshake boycott is seen against the backdrop of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir on April 22, where 26 tourists were killed by Pakistan-backed terrorists.
- The political strain has spilled over into the cricket rivalry, adding fuel to the controversy during the Asia Cup clash.
What’s Next?
- The Asian Cricket Council and International Cricket Council (ICC) are expected to review the PCB’s complaint and decide on any disciplinary actions against referee Andy Pycroft.
- The incident has reignited calls for maintaining the spirit and sportsmanship of cricket despite political tensions.
Also Read : India To Be Punished For Handshake ‘Boycott’ Against Pakistan? Here’s What The ICC Rules Say
