DUBAI: The post-match controversy has cast a big show over the Asia Cup, as Pakistani players and officials expressed disappointment over what they described as disrespectful behavior from the Indian camp.
The Pakistani players were reluctant to engage in post-match handshakes after sensing a lack of courtesy from their Indian counterparts.
In addition, the team management, however, instructed them to stay on the field. The situation escalated further when Pakistan team director Mike Hesson and Salman Ali Agha approached the Indian dressing room, only to have the door closed in their faces by a member of India’s support staff.
So far, the matter drew greater attention during the awards ceremony. Additionally, Pakistan captain declined to attend in protest, Shaheen Shah Afridi was sent to collect an individual award on behalf of the team.
In this sense, the players later conveyed their dismay, stating that they would no longer participate in interviews or accept awards presented by Indian officials.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) initially remained silent, but Chairman Mohsin Naqvi sought explanations from team management.
Meanwhile, he was dissatisfied with the response, so he instructed the PCB to write to the ICC, demanding the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft.
The dispute lies in the allegation that Pycroft advised Salman Ali Agha not to shake hands with Indian batter Suryakumar Yadav, a move viewed by Pakistan as a clear breach of neutrality.
The incident has reignited long-standing tensions between the two cricket boards. PCB officials have warned that if the issue is not addressed, Pakistan may consider withdrawing from the remainder of the Asia Cup.
However, cricket has historically been a bridge between nations, the latest events mention how political undercurrents and sporting rivalries can overshadow the spirit of the game.
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The ICC now faces mounting pressure to ensure neutrality and discipline, as both teams prepare for future encounters under intense scrutiny.
