What happened in the Andy Pycroft–Pakistan team meeting: ICC insider version

An ICC insider has outlined what took place behind the scenes when match referee Andy Pycroft met Pakistan’s team management in Dubai. The meeting came after a day of drama, a delayed start, and talk of a pullout over the ‘no-handshake’ row from the India game. Here is the sequence, what Pycroft conveyed, and why Pakistan eventually played.

Why the meeting was held

Pakistan had blamed Pycroft for what happened at the toss in the India match—no handshake and no team‑sheet exchange—then demanded he be removed from Asia Cup duties. The ICC reviewed the complaint and declined to replace him, saying he had followed event instructions under time pressure. With Pakistan threatening not to take the field against the UAE, a face‑to‑face was arranged to clear the air.

Inside the room

• The ICC facilitated a meeting between Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha, the team manager, and Andy Pycroft.

• Pycroft expressed regret for any “miscommunication” but stressed he had merely relayed directions he received from the venue/tournament staff minutes before the toss.

• He underlined that he had not violated the ICC Code of Conduct and that match referees do not set or police team‑ or event‑specific protocols like handshakes; those sit with organisers and team managers.

The ICC’s stance

• The ICC had already reviewed Pakistan’s initial email and found “no case to answer” for the referee, sharing that conclusion with the PCB.

• A subsequent request (including one channelled via the event organiser) to reassign Pycroft was also rejected to avoid a precedent of changing officials at a member’s demand.

• When Pakistan later asked for a formal inquiry into alleged code breaches, the ICC asked them to submit specific evidence to proceed.

Why the match was delayed, then played

Pakistan stayed at the hotel awaiting board directions after being told Pycroft would remain on duty. Following the meeting—and while the ICC stood by its appointments—Pakistan proceeded to the ground, and the game started about an hour late. Practically, this averted a forfeit, broadcast and ticketing complications, and potential sanctions.

What changes next

• Expect stricter, written pre‑briefs for high‑profile fixtures: toss procedures, team‑sheet exchange mechanics, post‑match movement, and presentation choreography.

• Officials will keep day‑of instructions consistent and documented to reduce last‑minute confusion.

• Any future complaints will likely need supporting statements and materials at filing to trigger full inquiries.

In short: the meeting helped de‑escalate. Pycroft acknowledged communication gaps without admitting wrongdoing, the ICC reaffirmed he had acted within remit, and Pakistan took the field. The focus now shifts to clear protocols that prevent ceremony from overshadowing cricket.