PCB Boycott Asia Cup: Pakistan Demands Removal of Match Referee Andy Pycroft

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued a strong warning, announcing the possibility of a PCB boycott Asia Cup 2025 over the controversial role of match referee Andy Pycroft. PCB insists that unless Pycroft is removed, Pakistan will not participate in the tournament.

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Why PCB is Protesting?

The move towards a PCB boycott Asia Cup comes after several incidents during the Pakistan vs India Asia Cup match. According to PCB:

• Referee Andy Pycroft stopped the captains from shaking hands at the toss.

• PCB considers this behavior unprofessional and against the spirit of cricket.

• A formal complaint was sent to the ICC and MCC, highlighting clear violations of rules.

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PCB’s Official Demands

In its official letter, PCB made its stance very clear:

• Andy Pycroft must be removed immediately from Asia Cup duty.

• Until then, a PCB boycott Asia Cup is certain, and Pakistan will refuse to play any matches.

• PCB has warned that if ignored, Pakistan will go ahead with a complete boycott of the Asia Cup 2025.

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Incident During Pakistan vs India Match

The controversy leading to the PCB boycott Asia Cup threat began during the high-voltage Pakistan vs India clash:

• At the toss, Pycroft allegedly told Pakistan captain Salman Agha not to shake hands with his Indian counterpart.

• PCB argued that this action violated cricketing etiquette and the spirit of the game.

• PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi posted on X (Twitter), demanding ICC take immediate action.

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Reaction from Officials

Following the match:

• Team manager Naveed Akram Cheema raised concerns with tournament director Andrew Russell.

• Russell reportedly claimed that the instructions came from the BCCI and even hinted at Indian government involvement.

• This added political angle has further fueled the PCB boycott Asia Cup debate.

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Global Cricket Concerns

The threat of a PCB boycott Asia Cup has created major concerns for:

• ICC, which now faces pressure to act fairly.

• Sponsors and broadcasters, as a boycott by Pakistan could damage the tournament’s value.

• Cricket fans worldwide, who look forward to Pakistan vs India clashes as tournament highlights.

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Conclusion

The PCB boycott Asia Cup warning has shaken the cricket world. Now, all eyes are on the ICC’s decision — whether to stand with PCB’s demand or risk losing one of the strongest teams from the tournament.

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References

• ICC Official Website

• PCB Official Statements

• Asia Cup Updates – ESPNcricinfo

Read Also This: India vs Pakistan Handshake Controversy in Asia Cup 2025