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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has doubled down on its demand for the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft from the ongoing ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025, warning that the team will not play under his supervision.
According to board insiders, the PCB has written a second letter to the International Cricket Council (ICC), adopting a hardline stance after its initial request was not entertained.
In the strongly worded response, the PCB rejected the ICC’s decision not to take action against Pycroft and labelled the inquiry into his conduct as nothing more than a formality.
Sources revealed that the board categorically stated it would boycott matches officiated by the controversial referee and maintained its stance that Pakistan’s participation hinges on Pycroft’s removal.
The letter further argued that the ICC inquiry neither examined all aspects of the controversy nor engaged with the relevant stakeholders.
“Pakistan has urged that all concerns be fully addressed. Only after the official acceptance of our demand will Pakistan agree to play,” a PCB insider confirmed.
This development comes as Pakistan prepares to face the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in their final group match on Wednesday in Dubai.
However, PCB spokesperson Aamir Mir clarified on Tuesday that consultations are still ongoing, and a final decision on Pakistan’s participation will be announced before the match.
“The decision will be taken keeping Pakistan’s interests in mind,” Mir said.
The saga stems from the no-handshake controversy in the India clash, where both captains skipped the customary gesture at the toss, and Indian players walked off without acknowledging their rivals after the match.
The PCB has held Andy Pycroft responsible for the incident, calling his directives a breach of cricket’s spirit and traditions.
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