The Pakistan–United Arab Emirates Asia Cup fixture went ahead on Wednesday after referee Andy Pycroft issued a formal apology to the Pakistan team management. The controversy followed Sunday’s Pakistan–India encounter, when players did not exchange customary handshakes.
Pycroft, who officiated the India–Pakistan clash, admitted his role in the incident. According to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), he apologised to skipper Salman Ali Agha and the team manager, calling it a “miscommunication.” The International Cricket Council (ICC) has also expressed willingness to investigate the matter under its code of conduct.
Read More: Pakistan Asia Cup Boycott Threat
Uncertainty over Pakistan’s participation grew late Tuesday when a PCB spokesperson said no final decision had been taken regarding the Asia Cup. The team cancelled its pre-match press conference and delayed its departure from the hotel, sparking speculation about a possible boycott.
Eventually, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi instructed the team to proceed to the stadium. The Asian Cricket Council later confirmed the match would begin at 8:30 pm, one hour later than planned.
For Pakistan, the apology provided closure to a politically charged episode that risked overshadowing the tournament. With tensions cooled, focus returned to cricket as Pakistan faced UAE in their final Group ‘A’ game.