The ongoing debate surrounding the handshake controversy between the India and Pakistan national cricket teams has drawn strong criticism from former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif. He has openly questioned the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) approach, asserting that the board is pursuing a ‘wrong direction’ by targeting match referee Andy Pycroft instead of addressing the core issue.
Latif highlighted that the ‘handshake issue’ cannot be considered a breach of conduct because it is explicitly not mentioned in any of the playing conditions or the official code of conduct.
“A handshake is a necessary tradition that has continued for years. When we played, there was tension even then, but despite that, we would visit each other’s rooms—and players still do that. They must still be doing it now as well,” he remarked, emphasizing the cultural importance of the gesture.
The PCB had formally lodged a complaint with the ICC against match referee Pycroft, alleging that he instructed Salman Ali Agha and Suryakumar Yadav to forgo the traditional handshake at the toss.
Latif clarified why the PCB’s argument against Pycroft is fundamentally flawed, citing previous cases involving Usman Khawaja and Moeen Ali. Moeen Ali was warned by the ICC in 2014 for wearing wristbands with political slogans like “Save Gaza” and “Free Palestine.” Similarly, Khawaja received a reprimand in 2023 for displaying a black armband in support of the Gaza Strip.
“When a case is brought forward, you need concrete evidence and adherence to by-laws. According to section 2.1.1 of the by-laws, it is nowhere explicitly stated that a handshake is mandatory. So, what legitimate stance can we even take there?” Latif questioned.
He further added, “The PCB chose not to raise the issue where it truly mattered. In 2023, Moeen Ali and Usman Khawaja were fined 25 percent and reprimanded for not being allowed to display logos supporting Palestine or the Gaza Strip, and for being prohibited from using religious or political banners. This is the real issue the PCB should have addressed.”
“Andy Pycroft is not the problem. The actual problem lies in the mention of military matters, political statements, and discussions of attacks. This is what the PCB should have brought to the ICC’s attention, and the ICC would undoubtedly support them in that regard. A handshake is merely a gesture; it is not a rule. In any legal case, evidence is paramount,” Latif concluded.
