ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta Stands Firm Against PCB‘s Demand to Remove Match Referee Andy Pycroft
In a significant development within the cricketing world, Sanjog Gupta, the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer of the International Cricket Council (ICC), has taken a decisive stance against the Pakistan Cricket Board‘s (PCB) request to remove match referee Andy Pycroft from officiating in the ongoing Asia Cup. This incident highlights the complexities of cricket governance and the delicate balance between sportsmanship and political pressures.
Background of the Controversy
The controversy erupted following a high-stakes match between India and Pakistan on September 14, 2025, held in Dubai. The match, which is always a focal point in international cricket, saw Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav refusing to shake hands with his Pakistani counterpart, Salman Ali Agha. Yadav later clarified that his gesture was a tribute to the victims of a recent terror attack in Pahalgam, as well as a show of solidarity with the Indian armed forces involved in Operation Sindoor.
In the aftermath, the PCB accused Pycroft of misconduct, alleging that he had instructed the captains not to exchange team sheets and had advised Agha against initiating a handshake. The PCB characterized these actions as “partisan” and formally requested the ICC to replace Pycroft with former West Indies cricketer Richie Richardson for the remainder of their Asia Cup matches.
ICC’s Response
According to reports from Cricbuzz, Gupta led the ICC’s response to the PCB’s demands. The governing body firmly rejected the request, stating that there was “no valid reason” to remove Pycroft. An internal inquiry was conducted, which concluded that Pycroft had not violated any Code of Conduct or officiating protocols. This decision was communicated through a series of six emails exchanged between the two parties, reflecting the intensity of the negotiations.
Gupta’s leadership in this matter has been characterized as principled and resolute. He emphasized that yielding to such demands without substantial evidence of wrongdoing could set a dangerous precedent, undermining the authority of match officials. While the ICC did agree to conduct a limited inquiry into the incident, it made it clear that this investigation would not specifically target Pycroft.
Sanjog Gupta: A New Era for ICC
Sanjog Gupta’s appointment as ICC CEO in July 2025 marked a pivotal moment for the organization. He is the first Indian to hold this prestigious position, and his background in sports media has positioned him as a transformative figure in the cricketing landscape. Prior to joining the ICC, Gupta served as the CEO of Sports & Live Experiences at JioStar, a media powerhouse formed from the merger of Viacom18 and Disney Star.
Gupta’s career trajectory has been impressive. He joined Star India in 2010 and quickly ascended to become the Head of Sports at Disney Star by 2020. His innovative strategies have modernized sports broadcasting in India, enhancing cricket’s commercial and cultural significance. He played a crucial role in popularizing various sports leagues, including the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Indian Super League (ISL), while also elevating global tournaments like the Premier League and Wimbledon for Indian audiences.
His selection as ICC CEO followed a rigorous global recruitment process that attracted over 2,500 applicants from 25 countries. Gupta’s unanimous recommendation by the Nominations Committee and subsequent ratification by the ICC Board underscored the organization’s commitment to global expansion and digital innovation.
Upholding Integrity in Cricket
Gupta’s handling of the Pycroft incident has set a strong precedent for his tenure. His firm stance against PCB’s demands is being viewed as a message that the ICC will uphold integrity and due process, regardless of the political pressures that may arise. This approach is particularly significant in a sport where national rivalries often spill over into administrative matters.
The PCB’s claim of a “moral victory” following the ICC’s agreement to conduct an inquiry, albeit limited in scope, reflects the ongoing tensions between the two cricketing nations. However, Gupta’s refusal to compromise on the integrity of match officiating has been widely praised within the cricketing community.
Historical Context
The relationship between the PCB and the ICC has been fraught with challenges over the years. Historical grievances, including issues related to security, scheduling, and officiating, have often led to tensions. The current incident is a reminder of the delicate balance that cricketing authorities must maintain in navigating these complex dynamics.
In the past, similar controversies have arisen, often leading to calls for reforms in officiating and governance. The ICC’s response to the PCB’s demands may serve as a benchmark for how future disputes are handled, particularly in high-stakes matches that attract global attention.
Conclusion
As the cricketing world watches closely, Sanjog Gupta’s leadership during this contentious episode underscores the importance of maintaining the integrity of the game. His firm stance against the PCB’s demands not only reinforces the authority of match officials but also sets a precedent for how the ICC will navigate political pressures in the future. As cricket continues to evolve, the role of governance and the principles of fair play will remain paramount in ensuring the sport’s integrity and global appeal.
