DUBAI – After prolonged uncertainty and rising tension in the Asia Cup, Pakistan got the green light to leave their hotel and clash with the UAE in the Dubai Cricket Stadium. The PCB Chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, was the one to give the green signal.
During the initial phase, the match got delayed by an hour as the PCT players protested against match referee Andy Pycroft; however, the toss will now take place at 6 p.m. local time.
It all started when Pakistan refused to leave their hotel in protest, after claims that Pycroft denied all-rounder Agha Salman a customary handshake during Sunday’s intense match with India. The ICC turned down Pakistan’s request to replace the referee, leading to social media backlash and calls for the team to pull out of the tournament.
Players from Pakistan also skipped the post-match ceremony against India, and India captain Suryakumar Yadav’s tribute to Indian soldiers sparked more controversy. Even with all the drama, Pakistan practiced in Dubai on Tuesday, showing they’re ready to battle for a key win in the must-win group match.
