India vs Pakistan in hazard? Here’s the latest on handshake row from Dubai | Cricket News

The controversy erupted when Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha and India skipper Suryakumar Yadav didn’t trade the customary handshake throughout the toss at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. (AP Photo)

NEW DELHI: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has threatened to withdraw from the remaining Asia Cup 2025 matches if match referee Andy Pycroft isn’t eliminated, following an issue over lacking handshakes throughout the India–Pakistan conflict in Dubai on Sunday. The PCB has filed a proper grievance with the International Cricket Council (ICC), accusing Pycroft of violating the ICC Code of Conduct and the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) Laws concerning the Spirit of Cricket.The controversy erupted when Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha and India skipper Suryakumar Yadav didn’t trade the customary handshake throughout the toss at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The PCB alleges Pycroft had particularly instructed Salman to keep away from shaking palms along with his Indian counterpart.“The PCB has lodged a complaint with the ICC regarding violations by the Match Referee of the ICC Code of Conduct and the MCC Laws pertaining to the Spirit of Cricket. The PCB has demanded an immediate removal of the Match Referee from the Asia Cup,” Naqvi posted on X.

The scenario escalated after India’s seven-wicket win when Suryakumar shook palms solely with teammate Shivam Dube and walked off with out acknowledging the Pakistani gamers.Pakistan coach Mike Hesson voiced his disappointment:“Obviously, we were ready to shake hands at the end of the game. We were disappointed that our opposition didn’t do that. We went over there to shake hands and they were already going to the changing room. That was a disappointing way for the match to end.”In protest, Salman Ali Agha boycotted the post-match presentation.Suryakumar defended his actions, citing solidarity with the victims of the Pahalgam terror assault:“Perfect occasion, taking the time out, we stand by the victims and families of the Pahalgam terror attack. We express our solidarity. I want to dedicate the win to all our armed forces who showed a lot of bravery… I feel a few things in life are ahead of sportsmanship.”He additionally referred to Operation Sindoor whereas dedicating the win to India’s armed forces.

The PCB’s grievance has reached the ICC headquarters, chaired by Jay Shah, additional straining ties between the two boards. Pycroft is scheduled to officiate Pakistan’s subsequent match in opposition to United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Wednesday, which the PCB says strengthens its case.“There is nothing more important to me than the honour and prestige of my country,” Naqvi posted later.India have nearly secured a Super Four spot with two wins, whereas Pakistan should beat UAE to remain alive. The arch-rivals might meet once more in the Super Four stage on Sunday in Dubai.