IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal said the International Cricket Council (ICC) will examine the complaint lodged by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) regarding the India-Pakistan Asia Cup match, and that “if any misconduct is found, appropriate action will be taken.”
The controversy stems from the India-Pakistan game in Dubai, where Indian players did not exchange handshakes with their Pakistani counterparts before or after the match. The PCB argued this violated both the ICC Code of Conduct and the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) Spirit of Cricket laws.
Background of the handshake row
According to reports, the PCB demanded that match referee Andy Pycroft be removed after the incident. They alleged that Pycroft, in his role, allowed or even conveyed the absence of the handshake, which they said is contrary to cricketing norms.
Indian officials, on the other hand, stated that the decision not to shake hands was made in consultation with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Indian government. They also framed the gesture as a display of solidarity with the victims of the recent Pahalgam terror attacks.
What Arun Dhumal said
Speaking to the media from Hamirpur (Himachal Pradesh), Dhumal said that the ICC will look into the issue. “The ICC will review any issues raised by Pakistan regarding the recent match, and if any official misconduct is found, appropriate action will be taken,” he said.
He also noted that while the PCB had threatened drastic steps—such as pulling out of the tournament—if their demands were not met, the ICC has indicated it is unlikely to remove Pycroft.
Implications for the Asia Cup match and diplomacy
The handshake controversy has quickly evolved into a diplomatic and sporting dispute. With India and Pakistan being major rivals in cricket, gestures like handshakes are laden with symbolism, especially in a high-profile match.
The PCB’s complaint specifically cites Articles under the ICC Code of Conduct and the Spirit of Cricket laws, which emphasise respect, fair play, and maintaining the game’s traditions. Should any misconduct be confirmed, penalties could range from warnings to more severe sanctions, depending on the finding.
Conclusion
As tensions simmer, all eyes are on the ICC to see how it responds. Arun Dhumal’s assurance that “appropriate action will be taken” sets expectations. Whether the outcome will satisfy the PCB or defuse the controversy remains to be seen.