PCB slams ICC over ‘unjust’ exclusion from Champions Trophy final ceremony

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has lodged a formal protest with the International Cricket Council (ICC) over the exclusion of its representative from the Champions Trophy 2025 final post-match ceremony in Dubai, terming it a clear violation of protocol and an attempt to undermine Pakistan’s hosting rights.

Despite being the official host, no PCB representative was invited onto the stage, while BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia took part in the ceremony—despite not being designated for the role.

PCB’s Chief Operating Officer Sumair Ahmad Syed, who also served as the Tournament Director, was present at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium but was sidelined during the presentation.

A PCB spokesperson said that a formal complaint had been submitted to the ICC, demanding an explanation for the “blatant disregard for Pakistan’s role as the host nation.”

“This is a matter of principle, fairness, and respect for the global cricketing community,” the PCB stated, calling for a public apology and guarantees that similar incidents will not occur in the future.

The incident has further strained relations between PCB and ICC, with Pakistan’s board raising concerns over double standards and selective governance, particularly given that ICC CEO Geoff Allardice, who also held a host designation, was seen distributing prizes earlier in the event.

With the controversy now escalating, questions are being raised over ICC’s governance, neutrality, and credibility in managing global cricket tournaments.