Drama off the pitch is threatening to overshadow the action on it: the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has lodged an official complaint with the ICC, demanding the removal of the match referee after what it calls an embarrassing incident at the Asia Cup. The core of the dispute is simple, yet symbolic: a missing handshake.

During the toss at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha and Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav reportedly did not shake hands. According to the PCB, this decision wasn’t mutual but followed explicit instructions from match referee Andy Pycroft, who allegedly told Salman to avoid the gesture. For many, this goes against the spirit of sport.

The controversy grew after the match, won comfortably by India, when Suryakumar shook hands only with his batting partner, Shivam Dube, and departed without acknowledging the Pakistani players. Pakistan’s coach, Mike Hesson, expressed disappointment: not just at losing on the field, but at what he described as a lack of sportsmanship. Adding to the tension, Pakistan’s captain skipped the post-match presentation ceremony in protest.

Suryakumar, however, defended the actions, saying he dedicates the win to India’s armed forces and victims of the Pahalgam terror attack, and that these sentiments take precedence over customary gestures. He also claimed the decision not to engage in the handshake was supported by the BCCI and aligned with government sentiment.

The complaint is now with the ICC under the chairmanship of Jay Shah, setting the stage for what could be a contentious review. Beyond regulations and laws, this row touches on much more: pride, symbolism, and cross-border rivalry. The question remains: can cricket be separated from politics when national feelings are this raw?