Controversial Umpire Andy Pycroft Assigned Again for High-Stakes Pakistan–India Clash

DUBAI — The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has once again appointed Andy Pycroft as match referee for the upcoming Pakistan–India Asia Cup Super Four encounter on Sunday, a decision that has drawn sharp reaction from the Pakistani camp.

According to media reports, the Pakistan team has cancelled its pre-match press conference, citing concerns over the referee’s controversial history in fixtures involving the two arch-rivals.

In preparation, Pakistan has also engaged the services of a motivational speaker ahead of the crunch game, underscoring the high-pressure atmosphere surrounding the contest.

The match, set to take place in Dubai, is scheduled for 7:30 PM Pakistan Standard Time. Pakistan is expected to make one or two changes in its playing XI after their earlier defeat to India in the group stage.

India remains unbeaten in the tournament so far, while Pakistan’s only loss has come at the hands of their traditional rivals. Cricket fans across the region are eagerly awaiting whether Pakistan can stage a comeback in what is being billed as one of the most highly anticipated encounters of the Asia Cup