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ICC Acknowledges Pakistan’s Hosting of Champions Trophy Amid PCB’s Protest
The ICC has praised the PCB for successfully hosting the first global cricket tournament in Pakistan since 1996. However, controversy brews as PCB protests ICC’s “blatant disregard” for Pakistan’s role in the event.
ND
by News Desk
2025-03-13
ICC Acknowledges Pakistan’s Hosting of Champions Trophy Amid PCB’s Protest

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially acknowledged and congratulated Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for successfully hosting the 2025 ICC Men’s Champions Trophy. However, tensions remain as PCB continues to protest what it calls a disregard for Pakistan’s role as host nation.

 

India Played Matches in Dubai Amid Political Tensions

The tournament, held from February 19 to March 9, marked Pakistan’s first global multi-team cricket event since 1996. While matches were staged in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi, India played all of its games, including the final, in Dubai due to the Indian government’s refusal to send its team to Pakistan.

 

Despite the logistical challenges, the event concluded successfully, with India lifting the trophy after defeating New Zealand by four wickets in the final.

 

ICC’s Statement & PCB’s Protest

In an official press release, ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice lauded the PCB’s efforts:

 

“As this was the first global multi-team cricket event played in Pakistan since 1996, this event was of huge significance for the PCB. All those involved in delivering the matches and hosting the teams and visitors should be very proud of their efforts.”

 

However, PCB’s formal protest against the ICC remains unresolved. The PCB accused the governing body of “repeated blunders and double standards,” pointing out:

✅ Exclusion of PCB’s Tournament Director from the post-match ceremony of the final

✅ Pakistan’s name missing from the Champions Trophy logo during the India vs. Bangladesh match

✅ Part of the Indian national anthem mistakenly played at Gaddafi Stadium before the Australia-England match

 

PCB has demanded a public apology from the ICC, citing a troubling lack of neutrality in global cricket governance.

 

What’s Next?

The ICC is yet to officially respond to PCB’s complaints, leaving fans and cricket analysts questioning the governing body’s credibility and fairness. Will the ICC address the concerns, or will this controversy deepen the divide in international cricket?
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