Tensions Flare in Asia Cup as Pakistan Threatens Walkout Over Handshake Issue

Asia Cup Handshake Row: PCB Threatens Boycott, Demands Referee’s Removal.

The Asia Cup 2025 has been rocked by a fresh controversy after India’s refusal to engage in the customary post-match handshake with Pakistan. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has now threatened to withdraw from the tournament unless match referee Andy Pycroft is removed.

PCB Targets Referee Pycroft

PCB officials allege that Pycroft, a former Zimbabwe international, played a direct role in preventing the handshake by advising both captains against it at the toss. PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi confirmed he has written to the International Cricket Council (ICC), seeking Pycroft’s removal from the event.

Pycroft is currently slated to officiate Pakistan’s final group game against the UAE on Wednesday. Should Pakistan boycott the fixture, they would be eliminated, allowing the UAE to progress to the Super 4 alongside India.

The Flashpoint in Dubai

The storm erupted on September 14 after India’s seven-wicket win over Pakistan in Dubai. Skipper Suryakumar Yadav declined to shake hands with Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha, with Indian players also avoiding contact at the boundary rope.

Pakistan players were left visibly upset, while their captain skipped the post-match presentation ceremony in protest. Head coach Mike Hesson said the move was a direct fallout of the handshake snub.

Suryakumar, asked if the gesture was against the spirit of cricket, replied:

“A few things in life are beyond sportsmanship.”
He dedicated the win to India’s armed forces and victims of the Pahalgam terror attack earlier this year.

Fallout and Reactions

PCB chief Naqvi condemned India’s conduct, saying:

“Utterly disappointing to witness the lack of sportsmanship. Dragging politics into the game goes against the very spirit of sports.” The board has also suspended its Director of International Cricket Operations, Usman Wahla, for not addressing the controversy promptly.

ICC sources have clarified that while handshakes are encouraged as part of cricket’s spirit, they are not mandatory. As a result, India is unlikely to face disciplinary action.

What Lies Ahead

India have already booked their Super 4 spot and face Oman next on Friday. Pakistan, second in Group A, must beat the UAE on Wednesday to qualify. Sources indicate that even in the Super 4, Suryakumar Yadav has no plans to resume handshakes with the Pakistan team.