• Source:JND
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PAK vs UAE Asia Cup 2025: Despite being embroiled in boycott threats, a handshake controversy, and a delayed start against the United Arab Emirates (UAE), pacer Haris Rauf admitted that Pakistan players remained unfazed by the off-field controversies as Salman Ali Agha-led Men in Green brushed aside UAE to seal a Super 4 berth in the ongoing Asia Cup 2025.

The tension heightened surrounding Pakistan's clash against the UAE after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) filed multiple complaints with the International Cricket Council (ICC) to remove match referee Andy Pycroft for causing controversy over handshakes between India and Pakistan players in their previous match.

However, the ICC rejected the PCB's request multiple times, which eventually led to Pakistan cancelling their customary pre-match presser.

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After their request to remove match referee Andy Pycroft was denied, the PCB threatened to boycott their crucial fixture against the UAE. As a result, the Pakistani players were told to remain at their hotel. Eventually, Pycroft intervened to explain matters with Pakistan's team management, leading to the match proceeding with a delayed start.

With just less than 30 minutes remaining on the clock until the scheduled toss, the Men in Green finally received clearance from the board to participate in the crucial game with a Super 4 spot on line.

Haris Rauf said once he stepped onto the field by crossing the boundary rope, the off-field drama no longer held any importance.

ALSO READ: PAK vs UAE Asia Cup 2025: Pakistan Defeat UAE By 41 Runs To Reach Super 4, Will Face India Amidst Boycott Calls

“I wasn’t feeling any pressure. This is not in my control. These are decisions for the board; it’s their headache. For me, I had to play the match; my focus was on that. The management have handled things pretty well," Rauf said at the post-match press conference.

“It’s not my domain to speak on who plays and who doesn’t—that’s for the coaches and captain. As a player, if we get the opportunity, it’s on us to make the most of it. As for the batsmen, I’m sure they are discussing things among themselves. We have a few days before the next game, so hopefully we can prepare well," Rauf said when asked about parallels to that side.