ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has not yet made a final decision regarding the national team's continued participation in the Asia Cup, PCB spokesperson Aamir Mir confirmed on Tuesday.
However, Mir said that consultations are ongoing, and a final decision will be made soon.
"The decision will be made keeping Pakistan's interests in view," Mir said, amid growing tensions following a controversial incident during Pakistan’s group-stage match against India on Sunday.
The PCB recently filed an official complaint with the International Cricket Council (ICC) against match referee Andy Pycroft, accusing him of violating the “Spirit of Cricket” by allegedly instructing the captains of Pakistan and India not to shake hands at the toss, a gesture widely regarded as a symbol of sportsmanship.
In a related move, the PCB cancelled the team’s scheduled pre-match press conference ahead of Wednesday’s crucial fixture against the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Tournament organizers later confirmed the cancellation, saying: “Pakistan will not be holding their pre-match press conference today.”
The incident has sparked strong reactions from fans and former players across Pakistan. While some fans have urged the team to continue in the tournament, others have demanded a boycott in protest of what they allege to be biased officiating.
Despite the ongoing controversy, the PCB released footage of the team attending practice sessions, suggesting that, for now, Pakistan is still preparing to play its next match.
Having lost to India by six wickets in a rain-affected encounter, Pakistan must now win against the UAE to keep their hopes alive of qualifying for the Super Four stage of the continental tournament.
