An Indian cricket website has reported that the International Cricket Council (ICC) has rejected Pakistan’s request to remove match referee Andy Pycroft from officiating in the India-Pakistan Asia Cup match. According to the report, the ICC informed the Pakistan Cricket board (PCB) late last night of its decision. Earlier, Pakistan had formally requested Pycroft’s removal after raising concerns over his handling of the post-match handshake issue.

The website further stated that the ICC dismissed Pakistan’s claim that the referee acted under pressure from the Indian team. Instead, the ICC clarified that a representative of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) present at the ground had instructez Pycroft regarding the handshake matter. In response, Pakistan has warned that it may withdraw from the remaining Asia Cup fixtures if the referee is not replaced, citing biased behavior during its high-profile clash with India 

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)