Published on, Sept. 16 -- September 16, 2025 4:41 PM

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has rejected the Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) request to remove match referee Andy Pycroft from the ongoing Asia Cup 2025, Indian media reported on Tuesday. The complaint followed tensions during the recent high-profile match between Pakistan and India.

PCB had accused Pycroft of violating the Spirit of Cricket by instructing the captains not to shake hands during the toss, an unusual move in cricket's traditions. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi said Pycroft broke ICC and MCC rules, but the ICC reportedly responded late Monday, stating Pycroft would continue as referee and declined PCB's demand.

The controversy began after India's captain Suryakuma...