DNA
ISLAMABAD: Sources — The International Cricket Council (ICC) has turned down Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) request to remove match referee Andy Pycroft from his role during the ongoing Asia Cup, reliable sources confirmed on Tuesday.
According to insiders, the ICC has formally informed the PCB that Pycroft will continue to supervise matches, dismissing Pakistan’s concerns. The development follows Pakistan’s dissatisfaction over certain umpiring and refereeing decisions during recent Asia Cup fixtures, which the PCB believed had adversely affected the national team.
Sources further revealed that the PCB is likely to consult the government to decide its future course of action. “Pakistan’s matches in the Asia Cup will be finalized after high-level consultations,” one source said, adding that the cricket board is weighing its options in light of ICC’s response.
The PCB had raised objections after a series of controversial decisions during the group-stage matches, which Pakistani officials claimed were unfair and influenced the outcomes. Andy Pycroft, a former Zimbabwean cricketer, has served as an ICC Elite Panel match referee for years and officiated in several high-profile tournaments.
Pakistan’s cricket management feels that retaining Pycroft compromises the neutrality of officiating, especially after their repeated complaints went unaddressed. However, the ICC has stood by its official, indicating that its match referees are appointed based on strict neutrality and performance standards.
The Asia Cup 2025, currently underway in the UAE, has already seen rising tensions not only on the field but also off it, with Pakistan expressing reservations over officiating standards. Analysts believe that Pakistan’s potential consultation with the government signals how seriously the issue is being taken in Islamabad.
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