United News of Bangladesh

A heated controversy has erupted following the recent Asia Cup cricket match between India and Pakistan, with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) now formally demanding the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft. The dispute stems from the Indian team’s refusal to shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts at the end of the match on September 14, when India defeated Pakistan by seven wickets. The PCB issued a statement alleging that Pycroft violated the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Code of Conduct and should be “immediately removed from the Asia Cup.” This demand follows a formal complaint lodged by the PCB with the ICC. On his official X account, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated, “The PCB has lodged a complaint with the ICC regarding violations by the Match Referee of the ICC Code of Conduct and the MCC Laws pertaining to the Spirit of Cricket. The PCB has demanded an immediate removal of the Match Referee from the Asia Cup.” Bangladesh not playing their brand of cricket, says Mukund The PCB also brought the issue to the attention of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), describing the Indian team's actions as “unsporting” and “against the spirit of the game.” According to the report, Pakistan's team manager, Naveed Cheema, “strongly objected to the behavior of Indian players.” In protest, Pakistan’s captain did not attend the post-match ceremony. India’s Stance India's captain, Suryakumar Yadav, defended the team's decision, explaining it was a mark of solidarity and respect for the victims of a recent terror attack. At the post-match presentation, Yadav stated, “We stand with the victims and families of the terror attack and express our solidarity. We want to dedicate today's win to all of our armed forces who showed a lot of bravery.” The attack, occurred on April 22 in Pahalgam, reportedly killed 25 Indians. India blamed Pakistan for the attack — which Pakistan denied — and then launched air strikes inside Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, with Pakistan firing missiles back. The retaliatory actions from both sides led to the worst military confrontation between the neighboring countries in decades, resulting in dozens of casualties.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has received government approval to proceed with the national team’s five-match T20I series in Pakistan, scheduled to commence later this month. Farque Ahmed, the president of the board, confirmed the development to the media.  This decision follows a period of uncertainty due to recent tensions between India and Pakistan, which had previously led to the postponement of both the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Pakistan Super League (PSL). According to BCB president, while the government has given the green light, the board is still awaiting the official letter to finalize the tour. Mustafizur’s INR 6 crore IPL deal not full payout, here's why He said the importance of ensuring the safety and comfort of players and coaching staff before making a definitive decision. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has proposed a revised itinerary, with the series set to begin on May 27 in Faisalabad and conclude on June 5 in Lahore. The adjustments were made to accommodate the resumption of the PSL, which is slated to restart on May 17. Despite the government’s approval, some Bangladeshi players have expressed reservations about traveling to Pakistan, citing security concerns. The BCB has said that it will not compel any player to participate and will engage in discussions with the squad to address their apprehensions. Shakib set to return with Lahore Qalandars in PSL

Pakistan has retained six uncapped players in its squad of 17 for Tuesday’s first Test against South Africa in Karachi.

Pakistan batsman Umar Akmal was banned for three years from all forms of cricket on Monday for failing to report corrupt approaches before this year's Pakistan Super League.

The Pakistan Cricket Board says all 128 COVID-19 tests carried on players, officials, broadcasters and team owners associated with the Pakistan Super League have come back negative.

The Pakistan Cricket Board has suspended batsman Umar Akmal under its anti-corruption code hours before the start of its premier domestic Twenty20 event in Karachi on Thursday.

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has declined a proposal by the Pakistan Cricket Board (BCB) to play a day-night Test in Karachi when the Tigers are scheduled to play their second and final Test of the two-match series.

The Pakistan High Commission in Dhaka has issued multiple entry visas to all members of the Bangladesh National Cricket Team and management visiting Pakistan for three T20, two Test and one ODI matches to be played in Lahore, Rawalpindi and Karachi respectively.

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) will take final decision on much-talked about Pakistan tour of the Bangladesh National Cricket team in its board meeting on Sunday.

Bangladesh ODI captain Mashrafe Bin Mortaza said he would have gone on the Pakistan tour if he were part of the Test or T20 squad.