ICC Likely to Deny PCB’s Request to Remove Match Referee Andy Pycroft

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to remove match referee Andy Pycroft from officiating during the ongoing Asia Cup 2025, but the ICC has yet to respond. Reports indicate that it is highly unlikely that the governing body will approve this request. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi called for Pycroft’s removal following the handshake controversy during the India-Pakistan clash at the Dubai International Stadium on September 14, where Indian players did not shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts after the match. The incident sparked widespread debate and drew attention from cricket authorities, fans, and media alike.

According to insiders and reports from Cricbuzz, there is insufficient reason to justify PCB’s request. ICC officials reportedly believe that Pycroft had minimal involvement in the incident. His role was limited to conveying a message to Pakistan’s captain to manage the potentially awkward situation at the toss, ensuring the players’ decorum was maintained. Officials are concerned that acceding to the PCB’s demand would set a negative precedent, allowing national boards to exert influence over match officials without substantial cause, which could undermine the independence of referees in international cricket.

The MCC’s Spirit of Cricket guidelines further complicate the issue. These rules emphasize that handshakes before or after a game are encouraged as a sign of respect, but they are not mandatory. The ICC is expected to highlight this in its response to the PCB. The Spirit of Cricket stresses polite conduct toward opponents and officials, fair play, acceptance of umpiring decisions, and promoting a positive environment on and off the field. While important for cricket’s ethos, these guidelines are not legally binding, and do not constitute a formal rule requiring referees to enforce handshakes.

The situation has escalated due to reports that Pakistan has threatened to boycott their next match against the UAE on September 17 if their demand is not met. Andy Pycroft is appointed as the match referee for that game, and any disruption could affect the schedule and atmosphere of the tournament. Despite these threats, ICC officials remain firm that match referees cannot be changed solely based on a national board’s request without a clear, valid reason. This approach underscores the importance of protecting referees’ independence and maintaining the integrity of officiating in international cricket.

PCB’s complaint alleges that Pycroft violated the ICC Code of Conduct and the Spirit of Cricket, calling for his immediate removal from the Asia Cup. However, Naqvi’s request has not gained significant support, either from other boards or from the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). Match officials are appointed through a consultation process between the ICC and the local governing body, in this case, the ACC, which further reduces the likelihood that the ICC will act on PCB’s demands. Interestingly, the PCB has not reached out to the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), which oversees the formal rules of cricket, instead referencing the Spirit of Cricket in their complaint.

The MCC’s Spirit of Cricket guide clearly states that handshakes are a way to show respect but are not compulsory. It emphasizes core values such as respect for teammates, opponents, and officials, fair play, self-discipline, and creating a positive atmosphere. Players are encouraged to congratulate opponents on their successes, accept umpiring decisions gracefully, and uphold the spirit of the game regardless of results. While these principles are vital to cricket’s culture, they do not legally mandate a handshake, leaving referees with discretion in how they manage such situations.

In conclusion, the ICC is expected to maintain its stance of referee independence and impartiality, likely rejecting PCB’s request to remove Andy Pycroft. The controversy highlights tensions between the Spirit of Cricket and national board expectations, demonstrating that while respect and fair play are central to the game, match officials cannot be removed without substantial cause. Pycroft’s role remains secure, and the ICC is anticipated to respond soon, reinforcing the principle that cricket’s integrity must be preserved, even amid highly charged international fixtures.