Asia Cup 2025: Pakistan Cancels Press Conference Again, Tensions Rise with ICC Over No-Handshake Controversy

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The controversy that began with the "no handshake" incident at the 2025 Asia Cup continues to escalate. The Pakistani team's actions continue ahead of the Super Four clash against India on September 21st. Pakistan has once again canceled its pre-match press conference. Meanwhile, it is reported that a motivational speaker is being enlisted to boost the team's morale, which has been demoralized after the crushing defeat to India in the league match.

This is the second time Pakistan has canceled a press conference this tournament. They previously did so before their match against the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Now, ahead of the crucial match against India, this move has raised many questions. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has called in motivational speaker Dr. Raheel to boost the players' confidence. It is believed that there is disappointment in the Pakistani camp after the 7-wicket defeat to the Indian team, captained by Suryakumar Yadav.

The entire controversy began when the Indian team refused to shake hands with Pakistani players due to heightened tensions following the Pahalgam terrorist attack. This infuriated the PCB, which accused match referee Andy Pycroft of not taking action against India and even threatened to withdraw from the tournament.

Although he later agreed to play, the controversy did not end there. The ICC has sent a stern email to the PCB for recording and releasing online the meeting with the match referee, further escalating tensions between the two boards.

This off-field drama has increased the pressure on the Pakistani team, captained by Salman Agha, which has lost its last six matches against India. Therefore, it will have to perform at its best in the match on September 21st. Interestingly, Andy Pycroft will once again act as the match referee in this high-voltage match.