PCB Rejects ICC Probe on Asia Cup Referee
PCB Stands Firm on Asia Cup Referee Dispute, Rejects ICC’s Inquiry
Islamabad – The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has rejected the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) decision not to take action against referee Jeff Crowe Pycroft and has formally conveyed its refusal to play any Asia Cup 2025 match under his supervision.
According to insiders, the PCB dismissed the ICC’s inquiry as a “mere formality,” arguing that the process failed to examine all aspects of the controversy and did not consult key individuals involved.
In a second letter sent to the ICC, the PCB reiterated its stance, urging the body to issue a clear and official announcement that addresses Pakistan’s reservations. The board stressed that only after its concerns are resolved will Pakistan agree to play matches overseen by Pycroft.
The dispute stems from Pakistan’s Asia Cup group-stage clash with India, where tensions escalated after Indian players refused to shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts both at the toss and after the match. Matters intensified when Pycroft allegedly instructed Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha not to extend a handshake to the Indian skipper, fueling suspicions of bias.
In response, the PCB demanded Pycroft’s removal from tournament duties and warned it would boycott further fixtures if the referee continued to officiate Pakistan’s games.
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