Who is Usman Wahla? PCB Suspended Director of International Cricket amid Asia Cup handshake row

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has suspended its Director International, Usman Wahla, for failing to respond quickly during the controversy involving the Indian team and match referee Andy Pycroft in the Asia Cup.

Why Was Usman Wahla Suspended?

According to PCB sources, Wahla did not take timely action regarding the behavior of the Indian players and referee Andy Pycroft. After the game, it was reported that Indian cricketers refused to shake hands with Pakistan’s players. The referee also supported this decision, which sparked outrage.

The PCB considered this delay in response as a serious failure of duty. Wahla was held responsible and suspended immediately.

PCB Chairman’s Strong Response

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed anger over the incident. He said Pakistan’s respect and dignity come first.

“For me, there is nothing more important than my country. The honor and dignity of Pakistan cannot be compromised,” Naqvi stated.

PCB’s Complaint to ICC and MCC

The PCB has already sent a formal letter to the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). The letter accused referee Andy Pycroft of violating the ICC Code of Conduct and the MCC Laws of Cricket.

The board claimed that Pycroft told Pakistan’s captain Salman Ali Agha before the toss that there would be “no handshake.” He also asked the media team not to record the matter.

PCB called this a “serious violation” of the spirit of cricket and an act that damages the game’s integrity.

Pakistan’s Possible Boycott Threat

Earlier, Pakistan had even threatened to boycott future Asia Cup matches if the issue was not addressed. This shows how strongly the board feels about respect and fair play.