Pycroft was not allowed to enter the country after a major controversy erupted during the ongoing Asia Cup 2025. The move came after allegations that Pycroft advised Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha not to shake hands with Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav following their high-stakes encounter.
This incident has sparked outrage within Pakistan’s cricketing circles, with officials calling it an unprecedented breach of cricket’s long-established etiquette.
PCB’s Strong Reaction
PCB Chairman and Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chief Mohsin Naqvi raised strong objections to Pycroft’s conduct, accusing him of going beyond his official mandate and violating the ICC Code of Conduct. Reports suggest that the PCB even considered boycotting the tournament if Pycroft continued to officiate in the remaining matches.
The board has officially conveyed its stance to the ICC, demanding immediate action and the replacement of the referee. By banning Pycroft’s entry into Pakistan, the PCB has demonstrated that it views the matter not just as a sporting issue, but as a question of national pride and respect.
Government’s Involvement
The controversy has now spilled over into governance, with Pakistan’s Interior Ministry, which operates under Chairman Naqvi, issuing an official directive to bar Pycroft from entering the country. He had been originally appointed as the match referee for the upcoming Pakistan vs South Africa series, but those plans have now been cancelled.
This intervention highlights how the matter has moved beyond cricketing administration, with direct state involvement underscoring its seriousness.
What Happens Next?
With Pycroft sidelined, the PCB is expected to request the ICC to appoint a replacement referee. Meanwhile, the ban adds another layer of tension to already-strained cricketing relations in the subcontinent.
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Observers predict this incident will reshape how authorities select international match officials for tournaments involving Pakistan and India. It also raises questions about neutrality and transparency in match officiating at the highest level.
Conclusion
The banning of Andy Pycroft marks a rare and controversial decision in modern cricket, reflecting the sensitivity of sporting ties between Pakistan and India. For now, the PCB makes its stance clear: it will not tolerate any breach of cricketing protocol, intentional or otherwise, on Pakistan’s soil.
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