The handshake controversy of the Asia Cup 2025 has turned a new leaf, with Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman and Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president Mohsin Naqvi calling for the immediate suspension of match referee Andy Pycroft. This follows the PCB alleging that Pycroft told both captains not to exchange handshakes during the toss of the India vs Pakistan match in Dubai on Sunday. PCB's Official Complaint to ICC Source: X In a strong statement, Naqvi stated: "The PCB has lodged a complaint with the ICC regarding violations by the Match Referee of the ICC Code of Conduct and the MCC Laws pertaining to the Spirit of Cricket. The PCB has demanded an immediate removal of the Match Referee from the Asia Cup." Reports indicate that the PCB wrote a letter to ICC general manager Wasim Khan, saying Pycroft took Pakistan skipper Salman Agha aside during the toss and informed him there would be no handshake. Pycroft later had a conversation with India skipper Suryakumar Yadav. Following this, Pakistan team manager Naveed Akram Cheema spoke to tournament director Andrew Russell seeking clarification. The PCB claims it was informed that this move was in line with the BCCI’s stand after discussions with the Indian government. Also Read | WATCH: India Wins, But No Handshake with Pakistan – A Message for Pahalgam Escalation of Tensions The incident followed India's seven-wicket defeat of Pakistan, with Indian players and support staff shunning the customary post-match handshake. India captain Suryakumar Yadav later explained that the Indian "government and the BCCI were on the same page" regarding the decision. Pakistan captain Salman Agha opted out of the post-match presentation, while coach Mike Hesson described India's decision as "disappointing." Mohsin Naqvi also criticized India, posting on social media. He stated: "Utterly disappointing to witness the lack of sportsmanship today. Dragging politics into the game goes against the very spirit of sports. Let's hope future victories are celebrated by all teams with grace." Also Read | Aamer Jamal Mocks India, Operation Sindoor Amid Handshake Row vs PAK Possible Boycott Threat The PCB, as per reports, even threatened to boycott their upcoming match against the UAE if Pycroft is not dropped. Though not officially confirmed, it is an added twist of tension to the Asia Cup. Pycroft, a member of the ICC Elite Panel since 2009, is one of the most veteran referees in the sport. He is officiating in this tournament along with Richie Richardson. The ICC has not given a formal response to the PCB's protest so far. With Pakistan likely to face India again in the Super Four stage if they go ahead, this storm may not be over yet.