Overview

• The Asian Cricket Council confirmed Pakistan called off its scheduled pre-match media session in Dubai, the team’s second consecutive press conference cancellation this tournament.
• Despite PCB objections, Andy Pycroft remains appointed as match referee for Sunday’s India–Pakistan Super Four game, with an ICC source saying a review found no action was warranted and no apology was issued.
• The PCB has maintained that Pycroft apologised for a miscommunication after the Sept. 14 match, reflecting an ongoing dispute over what was said and how it was conveyed.
• PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi met players and coach Mike Hesson in Dubai and signalled a forthcoming statement, while the board brought in motivational speaker Dr Raheel Ahmed to help reduce player stress.
• Pakistan’s group match against the UAE was delayed by about an hour after talks over the refereeing issue, and former India captain Sunil Gavaskar criticised Pakistan’s repeated media no-shows, suggesting the ACC could consider sanctions.