Former Pakistan Cricketer Accuses Andy Pycroft of Bias Towards India
Ramiz Raja criticises Andy Pycroft for bias in Asia Cup, but stats show he has officiated matches fairly across India, Pakistan, and England.
Former PCB chairman and ex-captain Ramiz Raja criticised ICC match referee Andy Pycroft, claiming he favours India, following Pakistan’s controversial Asia Cup clash in Dubai.
The controversy began after Indian players refused to shake hands with Pakistan on September 14, a decision linked to the Pahalgam terror attack in April.
Pakistan captain Salman Agha skipped the post-match presentation, and the PCB even considered boycotting their next match against UAE.
They demanded Pycroft be removed, but the ICC rejected the request. Pycroft later apologised to Pakistan’s management for the handshake confusion.
Raja questioned Pycroft’s frequent presence in India matches, calling it “blatant” and hinting at partiality. “It should not be like this. This is a neutral platform, which is why there are referees and match officials,” he said.
However, statistics tell a different story. Pycroft has been a match referee in 124 India games, 103 Pakistan matches, and 107 England fixtures. Match referees also do not make on-field decisions, meaning claims of bias are unfounded.
