Pakistan Cricket Board's Dilemma Amid Asia Cup Controversy

The Pakistan Cricket Board faces challenges post a handshake incident involving Indian players as they navigate political and sporting pressures ahead of the Asia Cup game against the UAE. The PCB's request to replace the match referee was denied by the ICC, and tensions between the teams persist.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) executives are in a waiting game after a diplomatic incident involving Indian cricketers, who refused to shake hands following the Pahalgam attack which claimed 26 lives. This controversy shadows their prep for the Asia Cup match against the UAE.

After the handshake incident, PCB's attempt to replace match referee Andy Pycroft was rejected by the ICC, with their letter rejected by ICC general manager Waseem Khan, a former PCB CEO. Pakistan media suggests PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi's meeting with Prime Minister Sharif was not tied to the Asia Cup pullout issue.

The potential forfeiture of $16 million if Pakistan withdraws from the Cup looms large. Training cancelled and palpable tension reflect how Pakistan navigates on-field standards and off-field pressures, while India proceeds with intensity, celebrating Suryakumar Yadav's belated birthday quietly in comparison.

(With inputs from agencies.)