The India-Pakistan Super 4 match in the Asia Cup 2025 will feature Andy Pycroft as the match referee, a decision that is already drawing attention due to past controversies. The group stage match between these two teams was filled with drama, particularly regarding the post-match handshake. The Super 4 encounter will be held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Match Referee: Andy Pycroft
Details indicate that Andy Pycroft will be the match referee for the highly anticipated India-Pakistan clash on September 21 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Pycroft was also the referee during the previous match, which led to a significant handshake-related dispute. After the incident, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) voiced strong objections against Pycroft, even requesting his exclusion from the tournament. The PCB alleged that Pycroft had asked Suryakumar Yadav and Salman Ali Agha not to shake hands at the toss. However, the ICC later clarified that Pycroft acted to prevent any awkwardness for the captains.
Andy Pycroft also served as the match referee during Pakistan’s previous match against the UAE. Controversy surrounded this match as well. Pakistan initially refused to play, but following Pycroft’s involvement, they agreed to participate. Pakistan also claimed that Pycroft had apologized, which led to the match starting, but this claim was later proven untrue.
Group Stage Outcome
The group stage match between India and Pakistan also took place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, where India secured a victory by 7 wickets. In that match, India bowled first and restricted Pakistan to a score of 127 runs. India then successfully chased the target in 15.5 overs while losing only 3 wickets. This suggests a potential advantage for India in the upcoming Super 4 match.