India, Sept. 17 -- The Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) theatrics did not pay off as Andy Pycroft was not removed as the match referee for the Asia Cup 2025 Group A match between Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The senior Zimbabwe official, who has been at the centre of controversy after the no-handshake saga in the India versus Pakistan clash, was mentioned on the roster for the proceedings on Wednesday at the Dubai International Stadium. The PCB tried their best, even ensuring the match got delayed by one hour, but it was all to no avail.

Pycroft was seen alongside Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha and the UAE skipper Muhammad Waseem at the toss. However, there were no interactions between the senior official and Agha.

On Su...