PCB Faces Financial Setback Over Champions Trophy Hosting :
If the tournament is postponed or relocate to another country, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is likely to face massive financial losses.The PCB risks losing USD 65 million in hosting fees and potential ICC sanctions.
The standoff arises from India’s security concern, despite other nations touring Pakistan recently.
Event Scheduled to Be First ICC Event in Pakistan Since 1996 :
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has written to the ICC and asked them to provide a written confirmation from the BCCI that they are unable to play the Champions Trophy in Pakistan, as well as giving a reason for it.
Schedule from February 19 to match 9, 2025, the Champions Trophy is set to be the first global ICC event hosted in Pakistan since the 1996 co-hosted ODI World Cup. The PCB, under the leadership of chief Mohsin Naqvi, has been adamant about holding the event in Pakistan . The BCCI has made it clear that their men’s cricket team will not be going to Pakistan for the tournament next year.
The report adds that this loss would rankle further considering that PCB made serious investments to upgrade infrastructure for the Champions Trophy at the three earmarked venues – Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi between February 19 March 9.
The PCB has also pointed out that the tournament was awarded to Pakistan three years ago and no objection was raised at the time, or has been raised since. The PCB is believed to have provided a progress report at the ICC’s board meeting in October including the intention to go ahead with the 100-day launch event on November 11, no concerns raised.
Broadcasting and Sponsorship Stakeholders at Risk :
Without Pakistan’s participation, the ICC could face serious contractual challenges , with broadcasters and sponsors expecting high-pofile matchups, particularly featuring India.
These stakeholders have invested heavily in the event, anticipating marquee fixtures in the tournament. Any disruption to the could result in significant financial instability for the ICC and the PCB.