Reports suggest it is unlikely that Pakistan will withdraw from the remainder of the Asia Cup 2025, despite the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) formal complaint to the International Cricket Council (ICC). The complaint followed India’s refusal to shake hands with Pakistani players during their Sunday clash in Dubai.
The PCB also demanded the dismissal of match referee Andy Pycroft, accusing him of instructing the captains of both teams not to shake hands before, during, or after the toss.
“The PCB has lodged a complaint with the ICC over the match referee’s violation of the ICC Code of Conduct and the MCC Laws relating to the Spirit of Cricket. We have demanded his immediate removal from the Asia Cup,” PCB and ACC chief Naqvi posted on X.
Meanwhile, after the UAE’s victory over Oman on Monday, India confirmed their place in the Super Four. Pakistan, however, face a must-win situation against the UAE on Wednesday. If they succeed, a potential rematch with India awaits on Sunday.
“ICC under Jay Shah could impose sanctions” – PCB source warns of risks if Pakistan pulls out
According to The Times of India, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is highly unlikely to withdraw from the ongoing Asia Cup despite the controversy surrounding the “handshake drama” at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday night.
“It is very unlikely that the PCB will pull out of the Asia Cup. If that happens, the ICC, led by Jay Shah, could impose heavy financial sanctions on the PCB—something the board cannot afford right now. Following the Champions Trophy, when all stadiums were renovated, our financial position is already strained,” a PCB source told TOI.
Meanwhile, both India and Pakistan will be training at the ICC Academy on Tuesday. Although their schedules differ, the teams will overlap at the venue: India will practice from 6 to 9 p.m. local time, while Pakistan’s session runs from 8 to 11 p.m.
