Ravichandran Ashwin defended ICC match referee Andy Pycroft and criticised Pakistan for dragging him into the Asia Cup 2025 handshake controversy. Ashwin said the PCB is making a “big spectacle” after India’s group stage win and unfairly targeting Pycroft.
PCB Complaint Against Pycroft
The issue arose after India defeated Pakistan on September 14 and the Indian team did not shake hands. PCB filed a complaint and even requested Pycroft’s removal, claiming he mishandled the situation. The ICC rejected the complaint and confirmed Pycroft for the Super Four match in Dubai.
Ashwin Speaks on ‘Ash Ki Baat’
On his show Ash Ki Baat, Ashwin said Pakistan lacked courage to challenge the ICC, ACC, or Indian cricket directly. “They chose Andy Pycroft as a soft target. He is not a schoolteacher to force handshakes. He did nothing wrong,” Ashwin said.
Misplaced Anger
Ashwin dismissed reports of Pycroft apologising to Pakistan. “Why should Andy apologise? For Surya not shaking hands? This is just PCB fooling everyone,” he added. He noted India had informed the referee about their decision, and players were following team instructions.
Focus on Cricket
Ashwin said Pakistan’s anger was misplaced and arose only after their defeat. Instead of improving cricket, they are making handshakes an issue. With the Super Four match coming up, Ashwin emphasised that India wants to focus on cricket, not fake apology stories.
