TV
Andy Pycroft will retain his role as match referee for the India vs Pakistan Asia Cup match on Sunday, September 21, at the Dubai International Stadium.
Despite a previous request from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for his removal, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed that the former Zimbabwe cricketer will officiate the high-profile clash.
Pycroft has been at the center of attention since the September 14 Indo-Pak match, when the Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian team refused to shake hands with Pakistan, citing the country’s involvement in recent incidents in Kashmir. The PCB criticized Pycroft for miscommunication and not informing them about India’s decision, and formally requested the ICC to replace him.
Must Read: Feud between Irfan Pathan and Shahid Afridi escalates amid fiery social media exchanges
The ICC, however, did not take any action against the 69-year-old official, prompting Pakistan to threaten a boycott of the Asia Cup unless Pycroft was removed. The situation escalated further, with the PCB instructing its team to stay at their hotel ahead of their match against the UAE.
A subsequent meeting between PCB officials and Pycroft at the Dubai International Stadium reportedly saw the referee apologise to PCB’s Salman Agha and the coaching staff for the misunderstanding.
Despite the controversy, Pycroft remained the match referee, and Pakistan went on to play against the UAE, securing a comfortable win and advancing to the Super 4 stage.
