The highly anticipated India-Pakistan Super 4 match in the Asia Cup 2025 will see Andy Pycroft as the match referee, a decision that has already ignited discussion. The previous group stage match was marked by a contentious handshake incident that caused considerable uproar. The upcoming encounter is slated to be held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Andy Pycroft’s Appointment
It has been reported that Andy Pycroft will be the match referee for the India-Pakistan clash at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on September 21. Pycroft previously served as the match referee when the two teams last met. Following a handshake controversy during that match, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) made serious allegations against Pycroft and sought his removal from the tournament. The PCB claimed that Pycroft had asked Suryakumar Yadav and Salman Ali Agha not to shake hands at the coin toss. However, the ICC later stated that Pycroft’s action was intended to prevent any discomfort for the captains.
Pycroft was also the match referee in Pakistan’s previous match against the UAE, which also saw its share of controversy. Before that match, Pakistan had initially refused to play. However, after Pycroft’s intervention, Pakistan agreed to participate. Pakistan had also asserted that Pycroft had offered an apology, facilitating the match’s commencement, although this claim was later disputed.
Group Stage Result
The group stage match between India and Pakistan, played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, saw India triumph with a 7-wicket victory. In that match, India, after choosing to field first, successfully restricted Pakistan to 127 runs. India then chased the target in 15.5 overs, losing only 3 wickets. This performance suggests a favorable position for India in the upcoming Super 4 match.