PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi Reveals Why Pakistan Did Not Pull Out Of Asia Cup 2025?

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) was caught in a storm during the Asia Cup 2025 after Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav and his team did not shake hands with Pakistani players following their September 14 clash. The act sparked a major uproar about respect and sportsmanship in one of cricket’s most high-profile rivalries.

The PCB was equally dissatisfied with match referee Andy Pycroft, alleging he mishandled the incident. The board approached the International Cricket Council (ICC), demanding Pycroft’s removal and an inquiry into what it described as a clear breach of the code of conduct.

However, the ICC rejected these demands, stating that the matter did not warrant further action. This left Pakistan frustrated and considering its options. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi admitted that the situation had reached a point where “pulling out of the Asia Cup” was on the table.

Internal Deliberations and High-Level Involvement

Naqvi revealed that the discussion over a possible boycott went far beyond the PCB itself. “It was a very big decision, and the Prime Minister and government officials were monitoring the entire situation,” he explained. The PCB leadership held a series of internal consultations, weighing the sporting impact of leaving the tournament against the broader political and diplomatic message it would send.

The PCB chief made it clear that while emotions were running high, such a move could not be taken lightly. “We did think about it. It was discussed at length,” he said. Still, the ICC’s refusal to act against Pycroft or address the handshake snub left Pakistan in a position where it had to choose between registering its protest through withdrawal or continuing to play and making a statement on the field.

Choosing Sport Over Politics

In the end, the PCB chose to remain part of the Asia Cup. Naqvi stressed that Pakistan valued the separation of sports from political tensions, noting, “We believe cricket should stay above politics, and we decided to move forward.” He added that the team was advised to focus on their performance and represent the country with dignity.

Interestingly, even Pycroft later told Pakistan’s captain, coach, and manager that the handshake incident “should not have happened,” which offered some acknowledgement of their concerns. Although Pakistan did not get the official action it sought from the ICC, the board ensured its grievances were heard while reaffirming its commitment to the spirit of the game.