Asia Cup 2025: Pakistan Cancels Press Conference After ICC Rejects Demand

The troubles in Pakistan cricket deepened further during the Asia Cup 2025. After their crushing defeat to India and the controversy over refusing to shake hands post-match, the team has now taken another surprising step. A day before their crucial clash against the UAE, Pakistan cancelled its scheduled press conference at the last minute, raising many eyebrows.

Press Meet Called Off Abruptly

On Tuesday, September 16, Pakistan was set to hold a press conference before training at the ICC Academy in Dubai, as per the usual pre-match routine. However, just before the scheduled time, the session was abruptly cancelled, and no explanation was provided. The decision came just ahead of their must-win group stage match against UAE on September 17, which will decide their survival in the tournament.

Clash With ICC Over Referee

The move comes on the same day that Pakistan faced rejection from the International Cricket Council (ICC) regarding its complaint against match referee Andy Pycroft. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had demanded Pycroft’s removal after the handshake controversy against India, even warning that it might boycott matches if the request wasn’t met.

However, the ICC firmly dismissed the demand, refusing to change the referee. This left Pakistan in a tight spot — either withdraw from the tournament and face heavy financial losses or play under the same referee, risking further embarrassment.

Was It to Avoid Tough Questions?

Observers believe the press conference was scrapped to avoid uncomfortable questions about Pakistan’s stance and its hollow boycott threat. Facing both sporting setbacks and off-field controversies, the team is under mounting pressure to perform against UAE and secure a place in the Super Four stage.

Pakistan’s silence has only added to the uncertainty, leaving fans and experts wondering whether the team will focus on cricket or continue its off-field battles.