New Delhi, India – On September 16, 2023, ICC to likely reject PCB’s request regarding the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft after the India-Pakistan clash at the Asia Cup in Dubai. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) accused Pycroft of violating the ICC Code of Conduct by allowing Indian players to skip handshakes, a move that left the Pakistan team upset.
No handshakes were exchanged before or after the game. Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav explained that the decision came after consultations with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)and the Indian government. The team felt it was better not to follow this tradition under the circumstances.
According to ICC sources, PCB’s demand will not be accepted. Officials believe granting such a request would create a dangerous precedent, leading other boards to make similar demands in the future. A source confirmed that the ICC will soon notify the PCB, but no public statement will be made.
Before the match, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi had raised objections on social media. He stated that the board had lodged a complaint against Pycroft and asked for his immediate removal from the tournament.
On the field, India chased down Pakistan’s score of 127 runs. Pakistan had a shaky start, dropping to 6 for 2 wickets. A 39-run stand between Sahibzada Farhan (40) and Fakhar Zaman (17) offered some resistance. Later, Shaheen Shah Afridi’s quickfire 33 runs pushed their total to 127.
India responded strongly despite losing early wickets. Abhishek Sharma smashed 31 off 13 balls, setting the momentum. Suryakumar Yadav (47) and Tilak Varma (31) built a solid 56-run partnership. Their efforts, supported by Shivam Dube, secured victory by 7 wickets with 25 balls remaining. Kuldeep Yadav was the standout bowler, taking 3 wickets for 18 runs and earning the Player of the Match title.
After the match, Suryakumar paid tribute to victims of the Pahalgam terror attack, dedicating the win to the armed forces involved in Operation Sindoor. He emphasized that some issues go beyond sportsmanship.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s head coach Mike Hesson expressed disappointment that Indian players left without shaking hands. He noted that Pakistan’s players were ready, but the moment passed as India went directly to their changing room.
This controversy adds another chapter to the long cricketing rivalry between India and Pakistan. Beyond the politics, Punjab remains an important part of India’s cricket culture. Mohali’s PCA IS Bindra Stadium continues to host international matches. While Punjab has produced many skilled cricketers who shaped both the Ranji Trophy and the national squad.
India’s dominance in T20 cricket as of 2023, holding the top ICC ranking, further fuels the excitement in high-stakes matches like this. The rivalry not only reflects passion on the pitch but also the pride of millions of fans across both nations.
In conclusion, ICC sources confirm that ICC to likely reject PCB’s request, viewing it as unnecessary and potentially harmful for the sport’s governance. The decision, once official, will reinforce the ICC’s stance on neutrality and fair play in global cricket.
