Pakistan vs UAE Asia Cup 2025 Match Delayed
The Asia Cup 2025 has taken yet another dramatic turn, with the much-anticipated clash between Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates being delayed by one hour. Initially scheduled to begin at 8 PM IST, the game will now start at 9 PM IST at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The delay came after a whirlwind of developments involving the Pakistan team’s threat to boycott the tournament, a controversy with the Indian team, and a stand-off with the International Cricket Council (ICC) over match referee Andy Pycroft.
Boycott Threats After Handshake Controversy
The chaos stems from the controversial India vs Pakistan group match held on September 14, where Indian players reportedly refused to shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts after the game. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) raised objections to this conduct, labeling it as a breach of sportsmanship and formally lodging a protest with the ICC. Matters escalated when Pakistan requested the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft, claiming his handling of the incident was biased. The ICC, however, rejected the request on two separate occasions, intensifying Pakistan’s frustration.
PCB Chairman Intervenes
With tensions rising, Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi played a crucial role in calming the situation. Earlier in the day, strong indications suggested that Pakistan might withdraw from the Asia Cup altogether. However, Naqvi later instructed the players to travel to the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, assuring fans that Pakistan would not walk away from the competition. In a statement posted on X, Naqvi confirmed, “We have asked the Pakistan team to depart for the Dubai Cricket Stadium. Further details to follow.”
Pakistan Team Finally Reaches Stadium
After hours of speculation, the Pakistan team bus departed from the hotel and made its way to the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Led by captain Salman Ali Agha, the players were seen disembarking and preparing for the game, much to the relief of fans and organizers. The UAE players, who had already reached the ground well before the delay, continued with their warm-ups as the situation unfolded.
Andy Pycroft Remains Match Referee
Another major twist involved match referee Andy Pycroft. Reports earlier suggested that Pycroft briefly headed to the ICC headquarters amid uncertainty over his role in the Pakistan vs UAE clash. Despite Pakistan’s repeated requests for his removal, the ICC stood firm, confirming that Pycroft would continue to officiate in the tournament. This decision has left many questioning the ICC’s handling of the controversy and whether it might cast a shadow over the rest of the Asia Cup.
Broadcaster Confirms New Start Time
The official broadcaster of the Asia Cup in India later confirmed that the game would begin at 9 PM IST. This announcement reassured millions of fans waiting for live coverage, though the atmosphere remained tense following the boycott scare.
Broader Implications for Asia Cup
The incident has raised concerns about the spirit of the Asia Cup, which is meant to unite cricketing nations across the region. The refusal of handshakes between India and Pakistan has now snowballed into a political and administrative storm, highlighting the fragile nature of sporting relations between the two sides. Cricket experts have warned that such incidents risk overshadowing the tournament itself, turning the focus away from the performances on the field.
What Lies Ahead
As Pakistan and UAE finally prepare to face each other under the lights in Dubai, questions remain about how the controversy will impact the remainder of the Asia Cup. With Pakistan still visibly unsettled by the events of the past few days, their on-field focus may be tested. For the UAE, the situation presents an opportunity to capitalize on any distractions in the opposition camp.
The Asia Cup 2025, which was expected to showcase fierce yet friendly cricketing rivalries, has instead become a stage for off-field drama. All eyes are now on Pakistan’s performance tonight and how both the PCB and ICC navigate the challenges that lie ahead.
