Suryakumar Yadav Faces ICC Probe After PCB Complaint; Match Referee Controversy Deepens at Asia Cup 2025
ICC Investigates Suryakumar Yadav After PCB Complaint!
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has started a probe into India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav following a formal complaint by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). The issue arose after India’s win over Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 group stage, when Suryakumar made remarks that the PCB claims “politicized” the game.
What Sparked the Controversy?
After India’s seven-wicket victory on September 14, Suryakumar dedicated the win to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and expressed solidarity with India’s armed forces. He also admitted that the Indian team avoided post-match handshakes with Pakistani players, saying they were following instructions from the BCCI and the Indian government.
The PCB immediately filed a complaint, alleging that Suryakumar’s statements violated ICC’s neutrality code and harmed the “spirit of cricket.”
ICC’s Response to the Complaint
According to Indian media reports, ICC match referee Richie Richardson reviewed the PCB’s submission and found Suryakumar’s comments may have “harmed the image of the sport.” As a result, disciplinary action is now under consideration.
At the same time, the PCB also requested the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft, accusing him of asking both teams to avoid handshakes at the toss. However, ICC dismissed this demand, stating that Pycroft will continue his duties.
The Handshake Row
The refusal of the Indian players to shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts has fueled controversy across cricketing circles. While India insists it was following official instructions, Pakistan has criticized the move as “unsportsmanlike” and “political.”
What Happens Next?
Suryakumar Yadav now has two options:
- Accept the charge and any penalty the ICC imposes.
- Face a formal hearing involving representatives from ICC, BCCI, and PCB.
The final decision could carry disciplinary consequences for the Indian skipper and might further strain India-Pakistan cricket relations.
Conclusion
The Asia Cup 2025 was meant to bring cricketing excitement, but instead, it has turned into a stage for off-field disputes. From the handshake controversy to remarks that blurred the line between sports and politics, the spotlight has shifted away from cricket itself.
At Verified Insights Pakistan, we believe cricket should unite people across borders, not deepen divides. Sports must remain a bridge of peace, fairness, and respect.
