The Asia Cup 2025 has witnessed drama not just on the field, but also a significant ‘No Handshake Controversy’ that has captured headlines. What began with India’s refusal to shake hands with Pakistan in Dubai quickly evolved into a major confrontation involving the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the International Cricket Council (ICC), and match referee Andy Pycroft.
This tense situation reached a critical point on September 17th when Pakistan dramatically delayed their group match against the UAE by an hour, demanding Pycroft’s immediate removal. In response, the ICC has formally accused the PCB of serious protocol violations, specifically highlighting a breach of the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) code.
Reports indicate that Pakistan’s team manager brought a mobile phone into the PMOA – an act strictly forbidden under the Anti-Corruption Unit’s regulations. Furthermore, it’s alleged that a private discussion involving Pycroft, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha, and coach Mike Hesson was secretly recorded. This footage, later circulated on PCB’s social media without audio, was reportedly presented as ‘proof’ that Pycroft had ‘apologized’ for the earlier handshake snub.
In light of these developments, ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta sent a strongly worded email to the PCB, addressing the breaches and hinting at potential sanctions. This incident has clearly transcended mere sporting etiquette, evolving into a complex issue concerning governance and compliance within international cricket.
Timeline of the Handshake Controversy and its Aftermath:
- September 14: Following a seven-wicket victory in Dubai, India captain Suryakumar Yadav and his team controversially refuse to shake hands with the Pakistan players. In protest, Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha skips the post-match presentation, and coach Mike Hesson publicly accuses India of unsporting behavior.
- September 15: Pakistan manager Naveed Cheema lodges an official complaint with the ICC against match referee Andy Pycroft, alleging bias and demanding his removal from the tournament.
- September 16: The ICC rejects the PCB’s demand for Pycroft’s removal. Despite this, Pakistan threatens to boycott their upcoming match against the UAE if Pycroft continues to officiate. The PCB cancels a scheduled press conference but reiterates their demand in a second letter to the ICC.
- September 17: Pakistan delays its departure from the team hotel, causing the UAE match to be postponed by one hour.
- September 17: The PCB releases a video, albeit muted, of a conversation with Pycroft, asserting that it shows the referee offering an apology. Later that day, PCB chair Mohsin Naqvi, alongside former chiefs Ramiz Raja and Najam Sethi, addresses the media, intensifying their attack on Pycroft, with Raja notably calling him ‘India’s fixer.’
- September 17: Pakistan defeats UAE, securing their qualification for the Super Four stage. However, during this period, the PMOA violation by Pakistan comes to light.
- September 18: ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta dispatches an email to the PCB, explicitly highlighting the prohibited use of mobile phones and filming within the PMOA. The PCB’s response to this latest communication is still awaited.