Former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja has ignited controversy with accusations against ICC match referee Andy Pycroft, alleging favoritism towards the Indian Cricket team. The controversy arose following a post-match incident where Indian players reportedly declined to shake hands with the Pakistani side at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The PCB expressed discontent, pointing fingers at Pycroft for allegedly instructing Salman Agha not to shake hands with Suryakumar Yadav during the coin toss. Prior to the match against UAE, the PCB attempted to replace Pycroft. The match was delayed by an hour, during which time discussions reportedly took place between Naqvi, Ramiz Raja, and Najam Sethi concerning the implications of a potential boycott. Raja criticized Pycroft, labeling him a “permanent fixer” for India and accusing him of consistent bias. Raja expressed satisfaction that an emotional boycott decision was avoided, emphasizing that the team’s performance on the field should be the focus. Raja also highlighted Suryakumar Yadav’s post-match comments as a critical point and expressed concern about the politicization of cricket, hoping for improved performance from the team. Raja cited Pycroft’s extensive involvement in Indian games, suggesting a clear bias and a lack of neutrality.
