ICC pulls up PCB for protocol breaches in Andy Pycroft row during Asia Cup 2025

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has issued a strong warning to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) after multiple breaches of tournament regulations during the ongoing Asia Cup 2025. At the centre of the controversy is a video involving match referee Andy Pycroft, which the PCB allegedly recorded and circulated despite strict confidentiality protocols.

The issue first surfaced after Pakistan’s tense clash against India, which ended in controversy over a post-match handshake incident. Reports suggest the PCB expressed dissatisfaction with Pycroft’s handling of the matter and sought an apology from the official. Tensions escalated further when, ahead of Pakistan’s game against the UAE, a video of Pycroft meeting Pakistan players and support staff was released online.

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ICC Flags Breach of Confidentiality

The ICC viewed the act as a violation of the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) regulations, which clearly prohibit recording or publicising private discussions involving referees and team management. These sessions are designed to remain off-camera to allow open conversations and fair dispute resolution. By permitting media access and sharing the footage publicly, the PCB is said to have compromised those principles.

Adding to the tension, Pakistan delayed its arrival for the UAE match as the board continued negotiations with ICC representatives. Match-day schedules were disrupted, forcing officials to intervene to ensure the game went ahead. While the ICC allowed a formal pre-match conversation between Pycroft, Pakistan’s captain, and team management, it reminded the PCB that applying pressure on referees or trying to control the narrative through selective recordings was unacceptable.

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Observers believe this episode reflects a growing rift between the PCB and ICC on issues of conduct and governance. The global body has now signalled that any repeat offence could invite stronger punishments, including financial penalties or suspension of officials involved.

For Pakistan, the controversy has become an unwanted distraction in the middle of a crucial tournament. For the ICC, the incident has underlined the importance of safeguarding the independence of match referees. As the Asia Cup progresses, both sides will hope the focus returns to cricket, but the warning stands, protocol breaches will have consequences.