ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to announce its decision on Asia Cup participation on Wednesday, following a tense meeting in Islamabad on Tuesday night. The board has been under pressure since the fallout of the India-Pakistan clash in Dubai, which reignited hostilities both on and off the field.
The handshake controversy emerged when Indian players left the ground without exchanging handshakes after their seven-wicket win over Pakistan on Sunday. The incident provoked anger in Pakistan, with captain Salman Ali Agha boycotting the post-match press conference and the PCB filing a formal protest. The board also demanded action against match referee Andy Pycroft, though the International Cricket Council initially declined. Later on Tuesday, however, assurances were given that Pycroft would no longer oversee Pakistan’s matches, with Richie Richardson likely to step in.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi chaired the high-level meeting, which also saw disciplinary steps taken against Director International Usman Wahla for failing to manage the situation. Meanwhile, Pakistan cancelled its pre-match press conference ahead of Wednesday’s fixture against the United Arab Emirates, citing concerns over the heavy Indian media presence and possible boycott-related questions.
Both Pakistan and India have been training at the ICC Academy in Dubai, though on separate grounds to prevent further flashpoints. Matches are being played at the Dubai International Stadium and Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium. Should Pakistan continue in the tournament, their next appearance will be against the UAE at Dubai International Stadium on September 17.
The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) is also reviewing the situation and may impose disciplinary measures on the Indian team. After Sunday’s match, not only did Indian players avoid the customary handshakes, but even the captains refrained from the gesture at the toss. Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav deepened tensions by dedicating the win to armed forces in connection with the Pahalgam attack.
Pakistan team manager Naveed Akram Cheema revealed that the referee had instructed both captains to avoid handshakes at the toss, while head coach Mike Hesson condemned India’s behavior as unsportsmanlike. In protest, captain Salman Ali Agha skipped the post-match presentation.
The ACC is expected to deliver its verdict on the matter soon, with fines for Indian players a likely outcome. The PCB has emphasized that its own decision on the Asia Cup will be taken in line with national interest.
