Andy Pycroft, the ICC match referee, found himself at the center of a surprising and somewhat ironic moment during the first Test between India and the West Indies at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on October 2, 2025. Just weeks after being the target of criticism and calls for his removal by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) during the Asia Cup 2025, Pycroft received what many reports are calling the loudest cheer of the day.
The incident stems from the Asia Cup 2025, where tensions flared following the India-Pakistan group stage match. After the match, the Indian team, reportedly as a gesture of solidarity with victims of a terror attack, declined to shake hands with the Pakistani players. The PCB took exception, lodging a formal complaint with the ICC, and demanding Pycroft's removal, alleging that he mishandled the situation and failed to inform them about the decision regarding the handshakes. They even threatened to boycott the tournament.
The ICC, however, stood by Pycroft, stating that he had not breached any protocols and that the decision to skip the handshakes was made by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) officials on the ground. The ICC also emphasized that match official appointments are centralized and cannot be influenced by individual member boards. This led to a tense standoff, with Pakistan delaying their arrival for their subsequent match against the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Some reports even suggested the PCB claimed Pycroft apologized for a "miscommunication" regarding the handshake issue.
Despite the PCB's protests, Pycroft continued as the match referee for the Asia Cup, though Richie Richardson was appointed for the final between India and Pakistan.
Fast forward to the first Test between India and the West Indies in Ahmedabad. As is customary, the match referee was introduced at the toss. In a moment of playful commentary, presenter Ravi Shastri welcomed Pycroft with the words: "Back in the house all the way from Dubai in the hot seat, Andy Pycroft". The crowd responded with a massive cheer, seemingly acknowledging the recent controversy and perhaps expressing support for Pycroft in the face of the PCB's actions.
Shubman Gill, making his home debut as India's Test captain, was also present at the toss. West Indies won the toss and chose to bat first. Gill, with a smile, seemed to acknowledge the situation as well. The moment was significant, highlighting the complexities and sometimes humorous turns within international cricket. It also underscored the fact that the cricketing world hadn't forgotten the drama that unfolded during the Asia Cup, and that Pycroft, despite the controversy, was back on the field, carrying out his duties.
