The clash between Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the Asia Cup is under a cloud of doubt. The Asian Cricket Council’s (ACC) decision to delete a social media post regarding the match has created a stir. The Pakistan cricket team had previously hinted at a boycott. This followed a complaint lodged by the PCB against match referee Andy Pycroft, who was accused of preventing handshakes between Indian and Pakistani players.
The ACC’s deletion of the match announcement has intensified uncertainty surrounding Pakistan’s involvement. With the team’s departure from the hotel approaching, the match’s confirmation is still pending. Pakistan’s cancellation of its Wednesday press conference has also increased speculation. However, the Pakistani team conducted extensive practice at the ICC Cricket Academy on Tuesday.
The PCB has reportedly sent a second communication to the ICC. The PCB wants Pycroft to be removed from the match. This follows Pakistan’s defeat against India. The Indian team’s subsequent refusal to shake hands with the Pakistani players added to the controversy. ACC and PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi openly criticized the referee on social media and suspended the Pakistani team’s director.