ICC-PCB Relations Strain Over PMOA Dispute

The ongoing controversy involving the Pakistan cricket team in Dubai continues, as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) struggles to reconcile with its unmet demand for match referee Andy Pycroft’s removal. A conflict over the events of September 17 has erupted between the PCB and the International Cricket Council (ICC), spotlighting the team’s infractions in the Players & Match Officials Area (PMOA).

ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta highlighted instances of non-compliance in a letter on Thursday, particularly pointing to the Pakistan team’s media manager using a mobile phone in the PMOA—a violation of anti-corruption rules. However, the PCB contends that no regulations were breached.

“The media manager is an integral part of the team with authorized PMOA access. His presence does not constitute a breach. ICC guidelines do permit media managers to operate cameras. If standard protocols weren’t followed, the onus is on the ICC to inquire if the match referee reported this to the Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU),” the PCB communicated to the ICC, a day after receiving a formal objection from the ICC CEO.

The PCB’s stance appears tenuous as mobile phone usage within the PMOA is strictly prohibited. While media managers can possess their devices, usage is barred under PMOA’s stringent restrictions.

The contention arose when Pycroft, whose role in a prior handshake dispute was scrutinized by the PCB, convened a meeting with the Pakistan management just before the delayed game against the UAE at the Dubai International Stadium. Present were Pakistan’s captain Salman Ali Agha, coach Mike Hesson, manager Naveed Cheema, media manager Naeem Gillani, and ICC General Manager Wasim Khan. The gathering was filmed by the media manager.

During this brief meeting, the PCB claims Pycroft apologized to their management for the handshake issue, whereas the ICC’s version merely acknowledges his expression of regret over any miscommunication. The PCB circulated the video of this meeting among the press, though it lacked audio.

Initially, the PCB sought an investigation into the handshake incident. The ICC responded by asking for the basis of such an inquiry and requested Pakistan to present any evidence. To date, it seems the PCB hasn’t provided supporting documents.

The situation remains unresolved, and more developments may unfold, especially as the anticipation builds for Sunday’s second major Asia Cup encounter between India and Pakistan.