PCB alleges code breach in India game, asks ICC to remove match referee Andy Pycroft

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has filed a complaint after the India vs Pakistan Asia Cup match in Dubai. The PCB says match referee Andy Pycroft broke the rules and the spirit of cricket. They want him removed from the rest of the tournament.

The dispute began when India chose not to shake hands with Pakistan before or after the game. Pakistan says the referee told their captain, Salman Ali Agha, at the toss that there would be no handshakes. India later walked straight off the field after winning by seven wickets. Pakistan’s captain then skipped the post‑match presentation, and the PCB called the scenes “against sportsmanship.”

India’s side says the no‑handshake was a tribute to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and a show of support to the armed forces. The PCB has accused the referee of mishandling the situation and has asked the ICC to take him off duty. Reports suggest tournament officials will review the complaint. Handshakes are a tradition, not a written law, so any decision will likely focus on event rules and the match reports.

Some reports also indicate the ICC is unlikely to replace the referee mid‑event, but there is no official decision yet. Both teams could still meet again later, so organisers will want to calm the situation quickly.

What the PCB wants

• Removal of match referee Andy Pycroft from the Asia Cup.

• Action over what they call a breach of the ICC Code of Conduct and the spirit of cricket.

What India said

• The team’s gesture was a tribute to Pahalgam victims and the armed forces.

• The players were advised to avoid handshakes and focus on the game.

What happens next

• Tournament and ICC officials will study the referee’s report and the team statements.

• A formal position from the ICC may follow.

• The rest of the event schedule continues as planned unless told otherwise.