Former cricketer Ramiz Raja has questioned the role of controversial match referee Andy Pycroft, suggesting that the official shows a soft approach towards India in official tournaments.
Speaking to reporters in Lahore alongside PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, Raja said that Pycroft’s record shows clear favouritism.
He claimed Pycroft has served as a match referee 90 times in Indian matches, calling him “India’s favorite match referee.”
Raja highlighted that cricket should remain a sport, free from unnecessary political tensions.
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“If politics is brought into cricket, matters will go too far,” the former commentator warned, urging administrators to safeguard the spirit of the game.
The remarks come amid ongoing controversy in the Asia Cup 2025, where Pycroft has been criticised for his handling of the handshake dispute between India and Pakistan.
The PCB has formally raised concerns with the International Cricket Council (ICC), requesting Pycroft’s removal from Pakistan’s fixtures.
However, due to the unavailability of other match officials, Andy Pycroft officially apologized to the Pakistan cricket team’s manager and captain for his role in the controversy following the September 14 India vs Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup 2025.
The apology came ahead of Pakistan’s match against the UAE, which started after a delay of one hour.
