Who is Usman Wahla? The man PCB suspended amid ‘Handshake Row’

By Correspondent On Sep 16, 2025

The fallout from Pakistan’s 7‑wicket loss to India in the Asia Cup 2025 has taken another twist. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has suspended its Director of International Cricket, Usman Wahla, saying he “failed to take timely action” over the now‑infamous handshake controversy.

🚨 PCB has suspended Director Usman Wahla for not taking timely action against the match referee and over the handshake issue. (Qadir Khawaja) pic.twitter.com/JIX0GNodL3

— Sheri. (@CallMeSheri1_) September 15, 2025

What Happened & Why Wahla Was Suspended

The issue began after India defeated Pakistan in Dubai. Post match, Indian players, including captain Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube, reportedly refused the customary handshake and instead walked straight to their dressing room. PCB officials claim match referee Andy Pycroft instructed that there be no handshake at the coin toss as well.
PCB says Wahla’s role was to safeguard these kinds of sportsmanship concerns and that he didn’t act immediately when the behavior became evident. According to internal review reports, Wahla delayed forwarding letters or raising concerns formally with governing bodies like the ICC. That delay, PCB believes, undermined Pakistan’s position and dignity.

Government Reaction & Leadership Speaks Out

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has made it clear that “there is nothing more important than my country. The honor and dignity of Pakistan cannot be compromised.”

The board has not only suspended Wahla but also lodged protests with both the ICC and the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), accusing match referee Andy Pycroft of breaching the ICC Code of Conduct and MCC Laws of Cricket by allegedly directing players not to shake hands.

Boycott Threats & Super‑Four Implications

PCB has threatened to boycott their next game against the UAE unless their demands are met. If that happened, UAE would get two points. With UAE’s results also favoring them, a loss or withdrawal by Pakistan could mean that their campaign ends before the Super‑Four stage.

This isn’t just about cricket. For many, it’s about national pride, sportsmanship, and how actions (or inaction) reflect on those in charge.