The controversy between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the International Cricket Council (ICC) during the Asia Cup has reached a resolution. Following PCB’s demand, the ICC has agreed to change the match referee for the crucial upcoming match in the UAE. Controversial referee Andy Pycroft has been replaced for this match, and former West Indies cricketer Richie Richardson has been appointed, according to official sources.

The dispute arose after the India-Pakistan match when Pycroft reportedly refused to shake hands with Pakistani players, sparking PCB’s strong objection. PCB stated that Pycroft acted without impartiality, affecting the players’ morale, and even canceled the team’s scheduled press conference.

Initially, ICC had supported Pycroft, but after PCB’s firm warnings and to ensure the smooth conduct of the tournament, ICC agreed to replace the referee for this single match. Richie Richardson, former West Indies captain, brings extensive experience, which ICC believes will help restore players’ confidence. It is still unclear whether this referee change is limited to the UAE match or will apply to other matches in the tournament.