'Action will be taken': IPL Chairman on possible misconduct during India vs Pakistan Asia Cup match

India-Pakistan cricket relations have taken a new turn as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) lodged a formal complaint against match referee Andy Pycroft following a handshake controversy during their recent Asia Cup clash. The PCB has requested Pycroft's removal, but, as TimesofIndia.com reported, International Cricket Council (ICC) had rejected this appeal.

Although, a middle ground has been found with Pycroft being "rested" for Pakistan's match against the UAE on Wednesday which will decide who progresses from the group into the Super 4s.




The controversy erupted when Indian players did not participate in the customary handshake with their Pakistani counterparts before or after the match on Sunday. The PCB claimed this violates both the ICC Code of Conduct and MCC's Spirit of Cricket laws.

"The ICC will review any issues raised by Pakistan regarding the recent match, and if any official misconduct is found, appropriate action will be taken," IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal stated.

Pakistan had threatened to withdraw from the tournament if Pycroft was not removed the match referee. A final decision on their participation in the competition is due to be taken today.

India captain Suryakumar Yadav explained that the decision to skip handshakes was made in consultation with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Indian government. The gesture was made in solidarity with families affected by the recent Pahalgam terror attack.

"The Indian government has decided that while bilateral matches between India and Pakistan will not be played, Indian teams will participate in multilateral and international tournaments. If Pakistan's team needs to travel to India for such tournaments, the Indian government will issue visas," Dhumal clarified.

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