Following the heated India vs Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup 2025, debates have emerged around match refereeing and the role of Zimbabwean official Andy Pycroft. Some reports and social media discussions suggest that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is unhappy with certain officiating calls. But the big question is — can PCB actually demand Pycroft’s removal? According to cricbuzz :
Who is Andy Pycroft?
- Former Zimbabwe cricketer.
- On the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees since 2009.
- Has officiated in 80+ Tests, 150+ ODIs, and 120+ T20Is.
- Known for handling high-pressure matches, including multiple India–Pakistan encounters.
PCB’s Options if Unhappy
If PCB is dissatisfied with Pycroft’s decisions, the process is regulated by ICC:
Formal Complaint — PCB can lodge a written complaint after the match.
ICC Review — The ICC’s Cricket Operations department reviews the complaint.
Action — At most, referees are given warnings or dropped from future matches, but removals mid-tournament are extremely rare.
PCB’s Key Allegations
Unequal Penalties: Pakistani players were fined for slow over-rates, while India allegedly faced leniency.
Dissent Charges: PCB claims Rizwan’s dissent charge was “exaggerated,” whereas similar appeals from Indian players were ignored.
Pressure Moments: Officials argue that Pycroft’s calls in crucial overs “tilted the balance” of the match.
Why Such Reports Surface
India vs Pakistan matches are always politically and emotionally charged.
Any disciplinary call (fines, over-rate penalties, dissent charges) can spark accusations of bias.
Media and fans often amplify these debates, which creates the impression of official demands, even when not formally made.