'I'm not sure what the penalties are...': Gavaskar slams Pakistan team for skipping Asia Cup press conference ahead of India clash

The Pakistan cricket team has once again found itself in the middle of controversy during the Asia Cup 2025. Pakistan skipped the press conference ahead of their highly anticipated Super 4 clash against India, continuing their drama from earlier this week when they cancelled the press meet ahead of the UAE game and even threatened to boycott the match.

After India refused to shake hands with Pakistani players in the group stage match last Sunday, Pakistan created a stir by demanding that match referee Andy Pycroft be removed. The ICC, however, rejected their request twice and they were forced to eventually play the UAE match under the same official. The ICC has again appointed Pycroft as match referee for the India vs Pakistan Super 4 game.

Gavaskar slams Pakistan team

The team skipped its pre-match press conference before the upcoming game as they are apparently upset with the decision. Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar criticised the move, saying press conferences are important and help avoid confusion. Gavaskar also suggested that strict action should be taken if teams continue to break such rules.

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“I don’t know what the thinking behind that is, but as far as I know, press conferences are mandatory. If teams don’t hold them, I’m not sure what the penalties are-if any-but in today’s world, it’s important for the media to be involved and kept informed. It’s still essential to maintain open communication with the media. Instead of relying on ‘sources’ or speculation, it’s always better for teams to convey their point of view directly. Perhaps Pakistan feel they have nothing to share, which, frankly, isn’t surprising,” Gavaskar told India Today.

Gavaskar also reminded Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi, who is also the President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), of his responsibilities, pointing out that the body includes other member nations as well, not just Pakistan. Naqvi was calling the shots behind the scenes during the entire saga involving the PCB.

“Yes, Mohsin Naqvi is the head of the ACC, but there is an organisation under him that includes India, Sri Lanka, and other participating and non-participating member nations - that collectively form the Asian Cricket Council. As far as I know, there’s a governing committee within the ACC for tournaments like this, and they’ll likely want to understand what’s going on,” he added.