Usman Wahla Suspended: The PCB’s Response to the Handshake Controversy

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has suspended its Director of International Cricket, Usman Wahla, following the fallout from Pakistan’s loss to India in the Asia Cup 2025. The suspension stems from Wahla’s alleged failure to take timely action regarding the post-match handshake controversy. After India’s victory, Indian players, including captain Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube, reportedly did not participate in the customary handshake, heading straight to their dressing room instead. The PCB claims that match referee Andy Pycroft instructed that there be no handshake at the coin toss as well. The PCB asserts that Wahla should have acted swiftly to address these concerns, particularly by formally raising them with governing bodies like the ICC. The board believes Wahla’s delay undermined Pakistan’s position. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated that the honor and dignity of Pakistan are paramount. The PCB has lodged protests with both the ICC and the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), accusing Andy Pycroft of violating the ICC Code of Conduct and MCC Laws of Cricket. The PCB has threatened to boycott its next game against the UAE unless their demands are met, which could potentially eliminate Pakistan from the Super-Four stage if they were to withdraw or lose.