Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav (left) and Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha after toss throughout Asia Cup 2025 conflict at Dubai Worldwide Cricket Stadium, Dubai, UAE, September 14, 2025. — X@fad08
The Asia Cup encounter between Pakistan and India spiralled into a significant controversy after the Worldwide Cricket Council (ICC) match referee Andy Pycroft instructed either side to keep away from the customary handshake on September 14 (Sunday).
India didn’t cease there. The crew additionally refused to shake fingers after the match ended. This didn’t sit effectively with the Pakistani facet. They registered a protest with the ICC, and the state of affairs escalated.
Nevertheless, days after the match, the referee apologised, following which Pakistan determined to proceed with the continuing match on September 17 (Wednesday).
Geo.television catches its readers up with what occurred until at present:
September 14 — The handshake debacle
Forward of the Asia Cup conflict between Pakistan and India, ICC match referee Andy Pycroft instructs each captains to not shake fingers.On the toss, the Indian skipper avoids the customary handshake.After the match, when Pakistan’s gamers line up for the normal trade, the Indian crew walks away and shuts the dressing room doorways.India’s captain Suryakumar later defends the transfer, claiming it’s consistent with directions from his authorities and cricket board.In protest, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha refuses to attend the post-match presentation ceremony.
India’s Suryakumar Yadav talks to Shivam Dube throughout Asia Cup 2025 conflict at Dubai Worldwide Cricket Stadium, Dubai, UAE, September 14, 2025. — Reuters
September 15 — PCB backlash
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi condemns the incident, calling it in opposition to the spirit of the sport.The PCB lodges a proper grievance with the ICC and the Marylebone Cricket Membership (MCC), demanding Pycroft’s removing from the Asia Cup.Indian followers additionally complain about their crew’s transfer to not shake fingers with Pakistan.
September 16 — ICC’s reported response
ICC rejects PCB’s demand to take away Asia Cup match referee, claims Indian media.PCB reportedly threatens to withdraw from the Asia Cup if the referee will not be modified.PCB says it would take the ultimate choice, holding Pakistan’s pursuits first.
September 17 — Concern settled
Hours earlier than the match, PCB continues consultations relating to participation.The match is delayed for an hour, and gamers are requested to stay on the resort.Gamers depart afterward PCB chief’s orders, however the state of affairs stays unclear.ICC match referee Andy Pycroft apologises to Pakistan’s crew captain and supervisor.PCB confirms the apology, saying Pycroft phrases the episode a results of “miscommunication”.ICC expresses willingness to conduct an inquiry into violations surrounding the September 14 sport.Former PCB chairman Ramiz Raja questions Pycroft’s neutrality.Raja factors out that the referee has overseen greater than 90 India matches.