Wed Sep 17 15:40:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article based on the provided text:

**Pakistan Threatens Boycott, but Will Face UAE in Delayed Asia Cup Match After Referee Dispute**

**Dubai, UAE** – A dramatic standoff almost prevented the Asia Cup 2025 match between Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates from taking place today at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Just hours before the scheduled start, the Pakistani team remained at their hotel, sparking speculation that they would boycott the crucial game.

The delay stemmed from a dispute over ICC match referee Andy Pycroft. Pakistan reportedly demanded Pycroft’s removal from all their Asia Cup matches, alleging bias. The ICC investigated and rejected the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) request, finding no evidence of wrongdoing by Pycroft.

Sources say Pakistan threatened to pull out of the match entirely after their request was denied. A team bus was prepared, and players even loaded their kit bags, but were then instructed to return to their rooms, escalating fears of a boycott. Had Pakistan refused to play, the UAE would have automatically advanced to the Super Four stage.

A potential boycott would have cost the PCB an estimated $12-$16 million USD in revenue distribution from the Asian Cricket Council (ACC).

Ultimately, the team relented. The bus has left the hotel and the match will proceed with a one-hour delay.

The stakes are high for both sides. Pakistan is looking to rebound from a recent defeat against India, while the UAE is coming off a victory over Oman. The winner of today’s match will advance to the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup, while the loser will be eliminated from the tournament. This match is a knockout.

Pakistan started the Asia Cup with a victory over Oman, before loosing from India. The UAE suffered a defeat to India and then beat Oman.

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