Pakistan cricket team has cancelled its scheduled press conference in Dubai ahead of the Asia Cup. The decision came after the ICC rejected Pakistan’s demand to remove match referee Andy Pycroft.
Press Conference Called Off
One of the Pakistan players was supposed to address the media before training at the ICC Cricket Academy in Dubai. But the press conference was suddenly cancelled. Team sources told PTI that the step was taken to “avoid” tough questions about a possible Asia Cup pullout. Players were reportedly unwilling to face the media while the PCB was still undecided.
Dispute Over Andy Pycroft
The controversy started after PCB sent a strong letter to the ICC. They accused referee Andy Pycroft of asking India’s Suryakumar Yadav and Pakistan’s Salam Ali Agha not to shake hands at the toss during their Asia Cup clash. PCB demanded that Pycroft be removed from officiating their matches.
“Late last night, ICC had sent a reply to PCB stating that Pycroft won’t be removed and their plea has been rejected,” an ICC source told PTI.
Despite the protest, Pycroft is set to officiate Pakistan’s final Group A game against the UAE on Wednesday. Reports also suggest PCB is seeking a compromise, where another referee, like Richie Richardson, could step in.
Will Pakistan Withdraw From the Asia Cup?
On Monday, PCB threatened to pull out of the Asia Cup if its demand was not met. However, the decision to withdraw comes with major financial risks.
According to sources, PCB could lose INR 141 crore from the ACC’s share of revenue if it exits. “Can Naqvi risk Pakistan losing around USD 16 million out of a projected budget of USD 227 million for the fiscal year? That will be roughly seven per cent of the annual PCB revenue gone,” a source told PTI.
Broadcasters Could Suffer Losses
Pulling out of the Asia Cup would also upset official broadcasters. Pakistan’s absence would cancel at least two more high-profile India-Pakistan matches. The rivalry is the biggest revenue generator of the tournament. Losing these matches could mean massive financial losses for broadcasters and create pressure on Mohsin Naqvi, who serves as both PCB and ACC chief.
What Lies Ahead?The
As of now, Pakistan’s withdrawal looks unlikely due to heavy financial setbacks and broadcaster pressure. However, the PCB is still negotiating for a solution that could see Pycroft replaced for their remaining matches.
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