ACC Probe Reveals Bias, Collusion by Match Referee Andy Pycroft: Sources

ISLAMABAD: An internal investigation by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) into the conduct of match referee Andy Pycroft has been completed, with sources revealing serious findings of misconduct and bias.

According to reliable sources, the investigation has uncovered substantial evidence of collusion between match referee Andy Pycroft and Indian officials. The report indicates clear violations of the ICC Code of Conduct.

Sources claim that Pycroft acted on the instructions of a venue manager affiliated with India, specifically targeting Pakistani player Salman Ali Agha. It is alleged that Salman was deliberately prevented from participating in the toss ceremony, an act that sources say was pre-planned.

Additionally, Pycroft is said to have muted Salman Ali Agha’s microphone moments before the toss and instructed him not to shake hands with India’s Suryakumar Yadav. These actions, if confirmed, would constitute direct interference — a violation of ICC regulations, which prohibit match referees from issuing instructions directly to players or captains. Match referees are only authorized to communicate via the team manager.

Furthermore, sources allege that Pycroft intentionally avoided taking disciplinary action against Suryakumar Yadav for his controversial “Operation Sindoor” comment in order to shield the Indian player from penalties.

The Pakistan team reportedly raised concerns and requested a change of match referee. However, sources suggest that accepting this request would have amounted to the ICC acknowledging bias and exposing the Indian agenda within the administration.

The controversy has raised serious questions about transparency and neutrality in international cricket officiating.

Read more: Pakistan’s Muneeba Ali Nominated for ICC Women’s Player of the Month Award