The cricketing world has been rocked by fresh controversy after an internal Asian Cricket Council (ACC) probe revealed alleged misconduct by Andy Pycroft match referee during Pakistan’s recent Asia Cup 2025 clash against India.
The findings have fueled outrage in Pakistan, where cricket authorities accuse Pycroft of showing favoritism toward Indian players and undermining the spirit of the game.
The controversy first erupted during the toss on September 14, when Pycroft reportedly instructed Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha to switch off his microphone and listen to him privately. He allegedly told Agha not to shake hands with India’s skipper, Suryakumar Yadav — a move that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) described as “a clear breach of cricketing protocol.”
Sources claim the directive was “pre-planned,” designed to control what the Pakistani captain could or could not say just before the match began. The incident has since been labeled a violation of the ICC Code of Conduct.
The inquiry also found that Pycroft overlooked disciplinary action against India’s Suryakumar Yadav, who reportedly used the phrase “Operation Sindoor.” The comment, deemed inappropriate, was ignored to ensure the batsman avoided any fine or sanction. This further strengthened Pakistan’s claim that the referee had colluded with Indian officials.
Despite the seriousness of the allegations, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has rejected PCB’s formal demand to replace Pycroft as match referee for the Asia Cup. The decision, conveyed through an official letter, has only deepened Pakistan’s frustration.
The PCB, led by chairman Mohsin Naqvi, has warned that Pakistan may withdraw from the tournament if Pycroft continues in his role. “We cannot allow double standards in international cricket,” a senior PCB official said.
Tempers flared further after India’s victory, when players Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube walked off without completing the customary handshakes. Pakistan’s captain Agha and coach Mike Hesson later approached the Indian dressing room, only to find the door shut. The incident has been widely criticized as unsporting behavior, intensifying Pakistan’s calls for accountability.
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The PCB is reportedly considering boycotting its upcoming group match against the UAE if the ICC insists on retaining Pycroft. Such a move would automatically eliminate Pakistan from the Asia Cup and allow the UAE to progress.
Meanwhile, Pakistan has also requested the ICC not to assign Andy Pycroft match referee duties for their upcoming home series against South Africa in October, underscoring the depth of the mistrust.
The ICC, however, remains firm, stating that match officials are appointed in consultation with the ACC and that Pycroft’s role is not under review. For now, it appears the governing body is unwilling to bow to PCB’s demands, setting the stage for a potentially explosive standoff in world cricket.
