The upcoming India-Pakistan Super 4 match in the Asia Cup 2025 is set to be officiated by match referee Andy Pycroft, reviving memories of a contentious group stage encounter. The previous match was marred by a handshake controversy that led to significant disputes. The Super 4 match will take place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Match Referee Andy Pycroft
Reports indicate that Andy Pycroft will be the match referee for the India-Pakistan clash scheduled for September 21 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. He was also the match referee in the previous India-Pakistan match, where a handshake incident sparked major controversy. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) raised strong objections against Pycroft after that match, even seeking his removal from the tournament. The PCB alleged that Pycroft had prevented Suryakumar Yadav and Salman Ali Agha from shaking hands at the toss. However, the International Cricket Council (ICC) later clarified that Pycroft’s actions were aimed at averting any awkwardness for the captains.
Pycroft was also the match referee for Pakistan’s earlier game against the UAE. The situation surrounding this match was also tense, with Pakistan initially refusing to play. Ultimately, Pycroft intervened, leading to Pakistan’s participation after a resolution. Pakistan had also claimed that Pycroft had apologized, which paved the way for the match to proceed, though this claim was later refuted.
Group Stage Dominance
The group stage match between India and Pakistan also took place in Dubai. India secured a 7-wicket victory. Bowling first, India restricted Pakistan to a mere 127 runs. India then successfully chased the target in 15.5 overs, losing only 3 wickets, indicating a potential advantage for India in the upcoming Super 4 encounter.