The Pakistan drama in the Asia Cup 2025 continues unabated. What started from India not shaking hands with Pakistan following their group-stage encounter on September 14 rapidly developed into a giant controversy. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) took it to the extent of requesting the ouster of match referee Andy Pycroft and even threatening to pull out of the tournament. But after days of brinksmanship, Pakistan have backed off their threats and reaffirmed their participation in the Super Four phase. They will once again play India on September 21 (Sunday) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. PCB Relents After ICC Stand The PCB first denied entry to the Pakistan team to reach their stadium for the Group A match against UAE on September 17. The message was simple, Andy Pycroft has to be removed as a match ref. Even after writing two letters, the ICC remained adamant, turning down the application and informing them that Pycroft had broken no Code of Conduct rule. Negotiations were then conducted by ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta and PCB president Mohsin Naqvi, following which other negotiations took place with Pycroft, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha, head coach Mike Hesson, and team manager. Later, PCB conceded, accepting the no-handshake rule which will carry on in the Super Four phase as well. Also Read | ACC AGM in Dubai Set for Sept 30: High Drama Expected Pakistan Defeats UAE, Enters Super Four The postponement of Group A match against UAE finally began late by an hour, but Pakistan ensured to put anxiety to rest with a dominating win. The gritty half-century of Fakhar Zaman assisted Pakistan in scoring 146/9 in 20 overs. Shaheen Afridi gave a late push with an unbeaten 29 off 14 balls, and also excelled with the ball, taking 2 wickets for a mere 16 runs. Haris Rauf and Abrar Ahmed contributed two wickets apiece, reducing UAE to 105 in 17.4 overs. Pakistan registered a 41-run win, securing their spot in the Super Four and paving the way for yet another electric encounter against India. While emotions seethe off the ground, the cricketing fraternity is waiting with bated breath to know how things will go when these arch-rivals are pitched against each other again on Sunday.