The Asia Cup 2025 is in the spotlight not only for cricket but also for controversies. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has clashed with the International Cricket Council (ICC) over the handshake issue with India. The drama began after India’s win against Pakistan on September 14, when the Indian players did not shake hands with their rivals.
Anil Chaudhary Criticises PCB’s Complaint
Former Indian umpire Anil Chaudhary has spoken on the matter. He believes the controversy should never have started. Speaking to ANI, he said there is no ICC or MCC rule about handshakes. According to him, this practice only began around 15 to 20 years ago. Earlier, only captains shook hands before a game.
Chaudhary said the PCB should not have filed a complaint. He added that those who raised the issue already knew nothing would come out of it. “It is all unnecessary. There is no rule for handshakes in the law book,” he said. He also suggested that this issue only created problems for administrators and players.
The umpire was clear that the PCB’s actions were not helping the game. He even said the complaint looked like an attempt to trouble the authorities, as there was no end result.
Anil Chaudhary Backs Pycroft Amid Allegations
The controversy also pulled in ICC elite panel referee Andy Pycroft. Reports said the PCB asked ICC to remove him, but the request was rejected. Emails were exchanged between the two sides, which only added to the drama.
Chaudhary, however, defended Pycroft. He called him a seasoned referee with a strong record. He reminded everyone that Pycroft had been a respected Zimbabwean cricketer before becoming a match official. “All these things are unnecessary. Pycroft has great experience and respect in world cricket,” Chaudhary said.
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Despite the noise, Pakistan has moved forward in the tournament. Their win over the UAE secured them a place in the Super Four. They will now face India again on September 21 in Dubai. Fans are eagerly waiting for the second chapter of this high-voltage rivalry.
