Pakistan have cancelled their pre-match presser ahead of the Asia Cup 2025 Group A clash against UAE, scheduled for Wednesday (September 17) in Dubai.
The move has sparked speculation over a potential protest or even withdrawal from the continental tournament.
This development comes just two days after the Men in Green faced embarrassment during their group-stage match against India as the Suryakumar Yadav-led side refused to shake hands or exchange post-match pleasantries with them.
Moreover, the Indian captain dedicated the seven-wicket win over Pakistan to the country’s armed forces and said the national team stood in solidarity with the victims of the Pahalgam attack.
Following the handshake gate, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi lodged a complaint with the ICC, demanding for match referee Andy Pycroft’s removal.
On the eve of the UAE fixture, one member of the Pakistan squad was supposed to address the media, but the briefing was abruptly called off without explanation, India Today reported.
According to the report, the Salman Ali Agha-led side is still expected to train as the match against the hosts will be do-or-die for them.
On Monday (September 15), it was reported that the PCB has even threatened to pull out of the ongoing Asia Cup if its demand for Pycroft’s sacking is not fulfilled.
A day later, however, the apex body formally rejected the request for a change of match referee. The appointment of match officials is done by the ICC, in association with the local body, in this case the ACC. Pycroft is due to officiate Pakistan's final group game against UAE on Wednesday.
Earlier, Pakistan team manager Naved Cheema lodged a complaint with the ACC, claiming that Andy Pycroft's directive prevented the exchange of team sheets between the two captains. Cheema reiterated that Pycroft’s actions disrupted standard protocol, deepening tensions ahead of the team’s remaining matches.
The board continues to explore solutions, including the possibility of a stand-in referee, although no final decision has been announced.
