Meet Sanjog Gupta: The Indian Mediator Behind the Asia Cup Handshake Controversy with PCB
The ongoing Asia Cup has been overshadowed by a controversy involving match referee Andy Pycroft, following allegations from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) regarding his conduct during the India-Pakistan match. PCB claimed that Pycroft acted in a biased manner, advising captains against the customary post-match handshake. Despite Pakistan’s request for his replacement, the ICC concluded that Pycroft had not violated any officiating standards. The situation escalated to the point where Pakistan threatened to withdraw from the tournament, causing delays before their match against the UAE, which they ultimately won by 41 runs.
Controversy Surrounding Andy Pycroft
The PCB’s demand for Andy Pycroft’s removal stems from their assertion that he displayed partiality during the high-stakes India-Pakistan match held in Dubai on September 14. They alleged that Pycroft advised the captains to skip the traditional post-match handshake, which is a routine gesture of sportsmanship. In response to these claims, PCB formally requested that Richie Richardson replace Pycroft for the remainder of their matches. However, after thorough discussions, the ICC determined that Pycroft had not breached any officiating protocols. Sanjog Gupta, the ICC CEO, played a pivotal role in addressing the PCB’s concerns, emphasizing that replacing officials without substantial evidence could undermine their authority.
The situation escalated further when Pakistan threatened to withdraw from the tournament altogether. Reports indicated that the team even prevented their players from boarding the bus to the stadium, despite their kits already being loaded. This led to a one-hour delay, pushing the start time of their match against the UAE from 8:00 PM IST to 9:00 PM IST. Pycroft was present for the toss ahead of the Pakistan-UAE clash, indicating that the ICC stood firm on their decision regarding his officiating.
Pakistan’s Performance in the Asia Cup
Amid the controversy, Pakistan managed to secure their place in the Super 4s with a convincing 41-run victory over the UAE in Dubai. Batting first, Pakistan set a target of 146 runs for the hosts. Their bowlers delivered an impressive performance, dismissing the UAE for just 105 runs. Shaheen Afridi was instrumental in the early stages, taking the crucial wicket of Alishan Sharafu for 12 runs. Abrar Ahmed also made a significant impact by removing UAE captain Muhammad Waseem for 14 runs.
Pakistan’s bowling attack showcased their depth and skill, effectively restricting the UAE’s batting lineup. The team’s ability to bounce back from the off-field drama and focus on their performance on the pitch highlights their resilience. As they advance in the tournament, Pakistan will look to build on this momentum and address any lingering issues from the controversy surrounding Pycroft.
The Role of Sanjog Gupta in the ICC
Sanjog Gupta, who took office as ICC CEO on July 7, has a rich background in sports administration and broadcasting. His career began in journalism before he transitioned to Star India (now JioStar) in 2010, where he climbed the ranks in various leadership roles. As the Head of Sports at Disney & Star India, Gupta was responsible for expanding the sports portfolio and enhancing operational efficiency.
Gupta has been recognized for his innovative approaches, including multi-language coverage and digital-first formats. He has played a significant role in the growth of ICC tournaments and the IPL, as well as domestic leagues like the Pro Kabaddi League and the Indian Super League. His extensive experience in the industry positions him as a key figure in navigating the complexities of international cricket, especially during challenging situations like the current controversy involving the PCB and match referee Andy Pycroft.
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