ICC Rejects PCB's Request to Remove Match Referee in Handshake Controversy

Andy Pycroft to Continue Despite Pakistan’s Protest Over Asia Cup 2025 Incident Against India

What Happened: ICC Rejects PCB’s Appeal

In a significant blow to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially rejected the PCB’s request to remove match referee Andy Pycroft from the ongoing Asia Cup 2025.

The controversy erupted during Pakistan’s group-stage match against India, where Pycroft allegedly advised against a handshake between captains at the toss — sparking allegations from the PCB of violating the Spirit of Cricket and ICC’s Code of Conduct.

PCB’s Complaint Against Andy Pycroft

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who also heads the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), filed a formal complaint via social media and to ICC officials. The key allegations included:

No handshake directive given to Pakistan captain Salman Agha
No team sheet exchange before the toss, allegedly on Pycroft’s instruction
Violations of MCC Laws and the Spirit of the Game

“The PCB has demanded an immediate removal of the match referee from the Asia Cup,” Naqvi posted on X (formerly Twitter).

ICC Response: No Change in Referee Appointment

According to sources quoted by PTI, the ICC responded late last night, confirming that Andy Pycroft will not be removed and will continue officiating.

Pycroft, a 69-year-old former Zimbabwean cricketer, is scheduled to officiate Pakistan vs UAE, the team’s final group stage game on Wednesday.

Team Manager’s Complaint to ACC

In addition to the ICC complaint, Pakistan team manager Naved Cheema reportedly submitted a separate complaint to the Asian Cricket Council, reiterating that: