Pakistan Cricket Board Wins Apology from ICC Referee Andy Pycroft
Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi emphasized keeping cricket separate from political interference after receiving an apology from ICC referee Andy Pycroft over the controversial handshake incident during the Pakistan-India Asia Cup clash.
ICC Referee Apologizes for Miscommunication
ICC’s match referee Andy Pycroft has apologised to Pakistan cricket team captain Salman Ali Agha and manager following handshake row after the India clash during Asia Cup 2025. The referee admitted the September 14 incident resulted from miscommunication and personally reached out to Pakistan’s team management.
The ruling came after digital rights advocates challenged the appointment process, with Justice Babar Sattar’s verdict exposing “manipulated” selection procedures. The ICC also expressed readiness to launch an inquiry into the matter, calling it a code of conduct violation.
PCB Considered Multiple Options
Speaking at a Dubai press conference, Naqvi revealed the PCB explored different responses, including tournament boycott threats. The board consulted former chairmen Najam Sethi and Ramiz Raja before making final decisions.
Key consultation process included:
- High-level discussions: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and senior officials engaged in talks
- Former chairmen input: Sethi and Raja provided strategic advice
- Boycott consideration: PCB seriously evaluated tournament withdrawal
- Dignity preservation: Final decision aimed to maintain Pakistan’s honor
National Expectations and Team Performance
Naqvi expressed gratitude that Pakistan’s dignity remained intact throughout the sensitive controversy. He stressed the importance of meeting national expectations in such high-profile matters.
The PCB chief acknowledged areas needing improvement in the national team’s performance. He assured fans that selectors would review player performances and address weaknesses systematically.
Former Chairmen Support Professional Approach
Najam Sethi backed Naqvi’s stance, stating the PCB consistently opposes mixing politics with sports. He explained that while others played politics, Pakistan responded with professionalism and sportsmanship, ultimately securing the apology.
Ramiz Raja welcomed the development as a victory for cricket itself. He praised the board for avoiding emotional decisions that could damage the sport’s reputation.
Players Must Channel Frustration Into Performance
Raja urged players to transform their frustration into strong field performances. He reminded the team that Pakistan’s reputation as a top cricketing nation must show through skill and results, not political controversies.
The former chairman emphasized that Pakistan cricket’s legacy depends on demonstrating excellence through gameplay rather than getting involved in off-field disputes.
Cricket Above Politics Message
“Cricket Must Stay Above Politics” became Naqvi’s central message amid the escalating row that threatened to overshadow the tournament. His words resonated across the cricketing world as fans feared political tensions could damage the sport.
This controversy evolved from a simple handshake incident into a diplomatic flashpoint. The resolution through professional dialogue demonstrates cricket’s ability to rise above political differences when leadership prioritizes the sport’s integrity.
