The drama that surrounded the Asia Cup 2025 went off-field. On Saturday, Pakistan cancelled its planned pre-match press conference before its Super Four match against India.
One of the players or members of the coaching staff was to address the media at 6 p.m. local time at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, but the briefing was suddenly cancelled without any official explanation.
It was also the second occasion during the tournament that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) shunned a pre-match presser, which cast new doubts on the current tensions between the PCB and the International Cricket Council (ICC). Previously, Pakistan had missed a similar event before their must-win match against the UAE just as they were demanding disciplinary action against match referee Andy Pycroft.
The scandal led to an explosive handshake when Pakistan lost in the group stage to India. Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav also declined the traditional handshake during the toss and once more after the game.
Team member Shivam Dube guided his team directly into the dressing room, leaving the Pakistani team on the field. Pakistan also filed a complaint with the ICC alleging that Pycroft did not adhere to the proper protocol.
The announcement of the press conference cancellation only has enhanced the feeling of anxiety, with emotions already soaring before the blockbuster event on Sunday. The spectators and commentators are now waiting not only on the action on the field but also on any further progress of the PCB-ICC tussle that is currently taking center stage in cricket.
