PCB set for late-night call on Asia Cup participation

PCB Set for Late-Night Call on Asia Cup Participation

Uncertainty Surrounds Pakistan's Participation

The Pakistan team's continuation in the Asia Cup hangs in the balance, as of Tuesday (September 16) night, with no clarity on their participation in the final and must-win league fixture against the UAE.

PCB Officials Send Mixed Signals

The PCB initially denied knowledge of the ICC's rejection of their demand to remove Andy Pycroft from the match referees' panel for the tournament over a handshake row. However, on Tuesday night, officials informally acknowledged receipt of the ICC's mail, while sending wavering indications about their further participation.

Practice Session Continues Despite Uncertainty

Pakistan's practice session overlapped with India's for more than an hour, with both teams training on adjoining grounds. Pakistan's players, including Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, and Mohammad Haris, were seen practicing their shots, while awaiting instructions from Lahore.

Off-Field Situation

The entire 15-member Pakistan squad is awaiting instructions from Lahore, where the PCB headquarters is located. A meeting is expected to be held late on Tuesday night once the PCB chief, Mohsin Naqvi, returns from Islamabad.

Handshake Controversy

The handshake controversy and its implications are at the center of the standoff with the ICC over Andy Pycroft, who is the designated match referee for Wednesday's game. A formal statement is expected late in the night or early Wednesday morning.