The match, scheduled to begin at 8:00 p.m. IST at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, eventually commenced an hour later at 9:00 p.m. IST following intense behind-the-scenes negotiations. UAE captain Muhammad Waseem won the toss and opted to bowl first, with both teams under pressure in what had effectively become a virtual knockout match
While the UAE squad arrived at the venue on schedule, the Pakistan team remained at their hotel pending instructions from the top brass (Pic: AFP)
The highly anticipated Asia Cup 2025 group-stage clash between Pakistan and the UAE finally got underway on Wednesday in Dubai, but not before a dramatic delay caused by Pakistan’s protest against the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) decision to retain match referee Andy Pycroft.
The match, scheduled to begin at 8:00 p.m. IST at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, eventually commenced an hour later at 9:00 p.m. IST following intense behind-the-scenes negotiations. UAE captain Muhammad Waseem won the toss and opted to bowl first, with both teams under pressure in what had effectively become a virtual knockout match.
The build-up to the game had been clouded by controversy. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had formally requested the removal of match referee Pycroft, citing concerns over his conduct during their previous match against India. That match saw Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav and his teammates decline the customary post-match handshake, a gesture later explained as a tribute to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and solidarity with the Indian Armed Forces. In response, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha skipped the presentation ceremony in protest.
The ICC, however, stood firm on its appointment, rejecting Pakistan's demand to replace Pycroft. This prompted the PCB to consider pulling out of the fixture altogether.
Tensions escalated throughout the day. While the UAE squad arrived at the venue on schedule, the Pakistan team remained at their hotel pending instructions from the top brass. PCB Chairman and ACC President Mohsin Naqvi took to X to announce that the team had been instructed to proceed to the stadium, ending hours of speculation.
“We have asked the Pakistan team to depart for the Dubai Cricket Stadium. Further details to follow,” Naqvi wrote.
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Naqvi's tweet
Earlier in the day, PCB advisor Amir Mir held a press conference at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, confirming that the match would be delayed due to ongoing internal consultations.
“The consultation process is underway. The PCB chairman is holding discussions with former PCB chiefs Ramiz Raja and Najam Sethi,” said Mir, suggesting that a final decision hinged on these discussions.
Ultimately, cooler heads prevailed, and Pakistan took the field for the must-win encounter. With both sides having beaten Oman but lost to India, the stakes could not be higher, the winner advances to the Super Four, while the loser exits the tournament.
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