The much-awaited India vs Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup 2025 finally happened, but the drama that unfolded after the match has only grown bigger. The infamous “Handshake Controversy” has now taken center stage, forcing the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to make three shocking decisions that have left fans and experts stunned.
First Big Decision: Cricket Operations Head Usman Walah Fired
PCB’s first and boldest move was removing Usman Walah, the Head of Cricket Operations.
- He has been accused of mishandling the handshake issue.
- Match referee’s report pointed towards mismanagement.
- PCB believes that if the matter was handled properly, such embarrassment could have been avoided.
Second Big Decision: UAE Match Boycott
PCB has also decided to boycott their upcoming match against UAE.
- This match is crucial as it would decide Pakistan’s entry into the Super-4 stage.
- PCB has set a condition: remove match referee Pyecroft, otherwise, they won’t play.
- However, the ICC has already rejected this demand, making Pakistan’s position highly risky.
- If PCB sticks to its boycott, they could be eliminated without even playing.
Third Big Decision: Saving Face
The humiliation Pakistan faced during the India match –
- Indian players refusing handshakes,
- Dressing room door shut in their face –
has pushed PCB into damage-control mode.
- PCB wants to show their fans back home that they stood up for themselves.
- Officials fear tough questions and criticism when the team returns to Pakistan.
- Hence, they are desperately trying to project strength with these dramatic decisions.
ICC’s Stand
The ICC has clearly refused to remove referee Pyecroft.
- This means the ball is now entirely in PCB’s court.
- They must decide whether to swallow their pride and play the UAE match or stick to the boycott and exit the tournament.
Conclusion
The Asia Cup 2025 has turned into much more than just cricket. With PCB’s three big decisions, it’s clear that the real battle is being fought off the field as much as on it. The world now waits to see whether Pakistan chooses to fight on the pitch or walk away.
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