Asia Cup Tensions: India Cancels Practice, Press Meet Following Pakistan Fallout

Hours after Pakistan called off its pre-match press conference ahead of its must-win Asia Cup 2025 clash against the UAE, India also cancelled its scheduled practice session and media interaction on Wednesday (September 17). Neither side provided an official reason for the sudden changes.

Pakistan’s last-minute cancellation was widely seen as a way to avoid questions regarding its demand for the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft. India’s decision, however, appeared less contentious, though it coincided with ongoing tensions between the two teams.

The BCCI had earlier released a schedule detailing all practice sessions and press conferences for the tournament, including a three-hour practice and media interaction on September 17 (Gulf time). Late Tuesday, the board announced via its official WhatsApp group: “Please note there will be no media and practice session tomorrow. It is a rest day. Will convey practice and PC time for pre-match PC for Thursday later.”

India conducted a full practice session on Tuesday in preparation for their final group-stage match against Oman on Friday. The board had also cautioned that the schedule was subject to change without prior notice.

The cancellations come against the backdrop of rising tensions following India’s refusal to shake hands with Pakistan during the toss of their Group A match on September 14. India captain Suryakumar Yadav later explained that the decision was made to honor the 26 victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and dedicated India’s win to the armed forces.

Pakistan reacted strongly: Salman Ali Agha skipped the post-match press conference, and the Pakistan Cricket Board filed an official complaint against Pycroft, claiming he informed Agha in advance that India would not shake hands. The PCB demanded Pycroft’s removal for the remainder of the tournament. While the ICC rejected the request, reports suggest Richie Richardson could replace Pycroft for matches involving Pakistan in the Asia Cup.