The air of mystery surrounding Pakistan’s crucial Asia Cup Group-A match against the United Arab Emirates thickened significantly as the team unexpectedly called off its traditional pre-match press conference. The cancellation occurred less than an hour before its planned start at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, leaving many questions unanswered.
Earlier in the day, it was revealed that the International Cricket Council (ICC) had reportedly dismissed the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) appeal to have match referee Andy Pycroft removed from the remainder of the tournament. This demand from the PCB followed a formal complaint lodged with the ICC on Monday. The complaint alleged that Pycroft had instructed captains *not* to shake hands before or after India’s seven-wicket victory over Pakistan, violating both the ICC Code of Conduct and the MCC Laws concerning the Spirit of Cricket.
Had Pakistan proceeded with the press conference on the eve of this must-win encounter against the UAE, it’s highly probable that reporters would have focused on the escalating controversy surrounding Pycroft. However, by canceling the event, Captain Salman Agha’s squad effectively sidestepped a potentially uncomfortable interrogation.
Despite the media blackout, Pakistan’s players were seen at the ICC Academy at 8 p.m., engaging in a vigorous net session. This took place on an adjacent ground where the Indian team was also training. As things currently stand, Andy Pycroft remains the appointed match referee for the upcoming Pakistan vs. UAE clash. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s earlier post on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday highlighted their formal grievance: “The PCB has lodged a complaint with the ICC regarding violations by the Match Referee of the ICC Code of Conduct and the MCC Laws pertaining to the Spirit of Cricket. The PCB has demanded an immediate removal of the Match Referee from the Asia Cup.”
Meanwhile, for the Indian team, it was business as usual. All players attended a high-intensity training session at the ICC Academy, gearing up for their Friday match against Oman in Abu Dhabi. The session commenced with warm-up stretches and sprints. A noticeable focus during the net practice was given to the middle-order batsmen, many of whom hadn’t faced significant pressure in India’s previous wins against the UAE and Pakistan due to relatively modest target chases.
Players like Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma, and Axar Patel were observed meticulously honing their skills during extended stints at the nets, ensuring they are well-prepared for any challenge ahead.