The International Cricket Council (ICC) has come under fire for not including any members of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in the presentation ceremony of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
This controversy erupted after India defeated New Zealand by four wickets in the final, held at the Dubai International Stadium on March 9, 2025.
Background:
The 2025 Champions Trophy was a significant event for Pakistan, marking the country’s first time hosting an ICC tournament in 29 years.
However, due to security concerns, India refused to play in Pakistan, leading to a hybrid model where India’s matches were held in Dubai.
Presentation Ceremony Controversy:
The presentation ceremony was attended by ICC Chairman Jay Shah, BCCI President Roger Binny, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia, and New Zealand Cricket (NZC) Director Roger Twose.
Notably absent were any representatives from the PCB, despite Pakistan being the official host of the tournament.
Reaction:
Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar expressed his dismay on social media, stating that it was “beyond his understanding” why no PCB members were present at the ceremony. He emphasized the importance of representation on a global stage.
Other former Pakistan players also voiced their disappointment, suggesting that this absence might be perceived as a snub by India, given the political tensions between the two countries.
The PCB chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, did not attend due to official commitments as the country’s interior minister.
ICC’s Role:
The ICC decides who attends the podium during such ceremonies. Despite PCB’s Chief Operating Officer Sumair Ahmed being in Dubai, he was not invited to the presentation.
This incident has sparked debate about the ICC’s handling of the situation and the perceived slight to the host nation.
The absence of PCB representatives has been seen as a missed opportunity for Pakistan to be recognized as hosts, despite the logistical challenges faced during the tournament.
