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A heated dispute has erupted between the PCB and ICC over alleged protocol breaches during a recent Dubai match. The controversy centers on the PCB media manager's unauthorized mobile phone use in the PMOA, a violation of anti-corruption guidelines. While the PCB defends its position, ICC regulations strictly prohibit such usage, escalating tensions further as the Asia Cup clash approaches.

The Asia Cup 2025 is embroiled in controversy after India's refusal to shake hands with Pakistan sparked a major standoff. The PCB demanded the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft, delaying a match against the UAE. The ICC accused PCB of protocol breaches, including unauthorised recording within the PMOA.

The Asia Cup is marred by a handshake controversy following India's victory over Pakistan, escalating with Mohammad Amir's veiled critique of the Indian team via a social media post praising Virat Kohli. This incident led to scheduling disruptions, including a delayed Pakistan-UAE match due to PCB's concerns over the match referee.

It remains to be seen how the PCB responds to the strongly-worded email, as they are yet to furnish details in response to another email sent by the global cricket body to the PCB on September 17 — the day the drama unfolded and the fixture was delayed by an hour.

Former Atiq-uz-Zaman criticised the PCB for providing substandard jerseys during the Asia Cup 2025, contrasting them with the dry-fit kits of other teams. Despite Pakistan's Super Four qualification after defeating UAE, Captain Salman Ali Agha acknowledged batting concerns, particularly in the middle overs. Agha emphasised the need for improvement before their crucial match against India on September 21.

Amidst controversy and tension, Pakistan's captain, Salman Ali Agha, asserts his team's readiness for the Super Four clash against India. Despite past incidents, including handshake disputes and standoffs, Salman emphasises the need for batting improvement, particularly in the middle order. He expresses confidence in the team's ability to overcome any challenge if they maintain their recent performance level.

Amidst uncertainty surrounding Pakistan's Asia Cup participation, the PCB demanded match referee Andy Pycroft's removal, alleging code of conduct violations during the India-Pakistan match, specifically regarding the captains not shaking hands. Despite PCB's threats and ACC's involvement, the ICC stood firm, asserting Pycroft followed ACC instructions and didn't violate any rules.

Pakistan's threat to withdraw from the Asia Cup over a referee dispute could cost them millions in revenue, potentially jeopardising their financial stability within the Asian Cricket Council. This potential decision, driven by PCB chief Naqvi's criticism of the match referee, risks a significant loss from broadcast deals and sponsorships.

The ICC rejected PCB's request to replace match referee Andy Pycroft during the Asia Cup after Pakistan alleged he instructed their captain to avoid handshakes with India's captain. The ICC clarified that ACC officials informed Pycroft about the no-handshake policy.

The ICC is likely to reject the PCB's demand to remove match referee Andy Pycroft, following allegations that he instructed captains not to shake hands. Sources suggest Pycroft may have been acting on instructions from the ACC. The PCB, led by chief Mohsin Naqvi, threatened to withdraw from the tournament if their demand wasn't met.