Controversy Leads to Match Referee Change for Pakistan in Asia Cup

The Asia Cup has seen a shift in match referee assignments for Pakistan, with Andy Pycroft being replaced by Richie Richardson. This change stems from disputes following the Pakistan-India match. The PCB, unhappy with decisions made and conduct during the match, sought Pycroft’s removal, leading to negotiations with the ICC. The initial ICC response, signed by ex-PCB CEO Waseem Khan, added complexity to the situation. The agreement ensures Pakistan’s continued participation, saving the board from a potential USD 16 million loss. The Indian team’s focused training, including intense fitness drills, contrasted with Pakistan’s less intense practice session. The lack of interaction between the teams underlined the existing cricketing rivalry and tensions. The Indian team celebrated Suryakumar Yadav’s birthday, marking the occasion with a cake-cutting ceremony. Pakistan’s training drills were seen as unusual for top-level cricket, and there was an observed distance between the two teams.