The India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 match on Sunday at Dubai International Stadium promises fireworks both on and off the field. The no-handshake controversy from September 14 still dominates headlines, creating tension between the two boards.
During the group clash, Suryakumar Yadav’s India skipped handshakes with Pakistan, which sparked outrage. The fallout quickly escalated into an ugly row between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Mohammad Amir’s Praise for Virat Kohli
In the middle of the storm, former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir shifted focus to Virat Kohli. Amir posted a photo on X, recalling the moment from the 2016 T20 World Cup in Kolkata when Kohli gave him a bat.
“One thing is for sure, Virat is the best player and best human being in Indian cricket history, respect,” Amir wrote.
Fans saw it as a warm tribute, though many also viewed it as a veiled jab at the present Indian squad involved in the handshake dispute.
PCB’s Clash With ICC Over Pycroft
The PCB demanded that match referee Andy Pycroft be removed, blaming him for failing to manage the India game. The ICC rejected the appeal twice, letting Pycroft continue in the tournament.
Before Pakistan’s match against the UAE, PCB claimed Pycroft apologised to captain Salman Ali Agha, coach Mike Hesson, and the team manager. To support this, PCB posted a muted clip of the conversation.
The ICC reacted strongly. CEO Sanjog Gupta wrote to the board, confirming that recording inside the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) breached tournament rules.
ICC Could Sanction PCB
Phones and cameras are banned in the PMOA to protect integrity under the Anti-Corruption Code. By releasing the footage, the PCB may have committed a serious violation. The ICC is now considering penalties, which could further damage Pakistan’s campaign.
As the India vs Pakistan Super 4 showdown nears, the spotlight remains split between the thrilling cricket contest and the intense off-field controversy.
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