Pakistan continue clownery, make another U-turn after Asia Cup boycott drama, agree for UAE clash
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As per the latest reports from several media outlets, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has now requested the Asia Cup 2025 organisers to postpone the clash against the UAE by an hour so that they can exert pressure to get a positive outcome from the talks with the ICC.
The India vs Pakistan match had left the Pakistan players as well as the PCB absolutely humiliated in front of the world. The Indian players denied the customary handshake, and PCB held match referee Andy Pycroft responsible for the misconduct. They had even demanded his replacement; however, the ICC has denied the unjust claims.
Pakistan sent to the ground; PCB make another U-turn after Asia Cup boycott drama
The PCB had informed the Pakistan management as well as its players not to step out of the team hotel. They had informed them that if the demands were not met, they would boycott the game against the UAE. As a result of this, the team bus did not depart for the ground.
However, after the ICC did not show any positive approach towards the demands of the board, the PCB has requested a postponement in the game, hoping for something to come in their favour. However, after much drama, the Pakistan players have finally left the hotel and are on their way to the ground.
The latest news has clearly stated that the match will not be boycotted and the game will be played, since the players might arrive anytime at the ground.
"Mohsin Naqvi, the PCB chair, is meeting and discussing with former chairs Ramiz Raja and Najam Sethi. They are discussing the issue and are in touch with Dubai over the matter. The match has been delayed by an hour for now," Amir Mir, PCB spokesperson, told reporters at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, as quoted by ESPNCricinfo.
Asia Cup Organisers officially postpone Pakistan vs UAE clash; Here's the updated Time
After the PCB urged the Asia Cup organizers for a delay in the match, they received a positive response. The Asia Cup 2025 match between the UAE and Pakistan has been officially delayed by the organizers, as they have given the board some time to conclude their decision on whether to boycott or continue in the competition.
"Asia Cup 2025 - Match 10 - Pakistan vs UAE. The match will start at 7:30 pm local time. Toss will take place at 7:00 pm," the organizers updated officially. This implies that the game is expected to start at 9 PM as per the Indian Standard Time, while the toss will take place at 8:30 PM IST.
UAE to walk into the Super-4 uncontested if Pakistan withdraws
India are already through to the Super-4, while Pakistan have 50-50 chances to make it to the next stage. This game against the UAE is a do-or-die for the Pakistani team. They started their campaign on a high note against Oman, but then faced a humiliating defeat to India.
The UAE has also levelled points with a win over Oman; hence, if the PCB decides to boycott the contest, then the UAE will qualify for the Super-4 stage uncontested. This will be a blessing in disguise for the UAE team, since they even for once did not manage to beat Pakistan in the tri-series, which concluded before the Asia Cup.
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