Pakistan cancel press conference, hire motivational speaker ahead of India clash

The Pakistan cricket team once again opted to skip their pre-match press conference ahead of the highly anticipated Asia Cup 2025 encounter with India. The two sides are set to face off in the Super 4 match on Sunday, September 21, in Dubai. This marks the second instance of Pakistan cancelling their pre-match interaction, a decision they made before their previous clash with the UAE as well.

To boost the morale of the team, Pakistan’s management has hired sports psychologist Dr Raheel Kareem. The team’s confidence has taken a hit following their heavy defeat to India in the group stage, where Suryakumar Yadav’s side claimed a commanding seven-wicket victory.

Adding to Pakistan’s challenges, India’s players chose to refrain from shaking hands with their counterparts after the recent border tensions, triggered by the Pahalgam terrorist attack. This move upset the Pakistan squad, who responded by boycotting the post-match presentation ceremony in protest.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) complained about match referee Andy Pycroft’s inaction regarding the Indian team and threatened to withdraw from the tournament, delaying their third group match against the UAE. After a meeting with Pycroft, they agreed to play the contest.

However, the ICC is now considering taking action against Pakistan for recording and releasing the meeting with Pycroft in the restricted PMOA area. The PCB defended their actions, citing ICC protocols. This ongoing controversy has added pressure on Pakistan, who have lost their last six matches against India, with Salman Agha‘s side facing a crucial match ahead. Andy Pycroft will once again be the match referee.