New Delhi: In a scathing rebuke, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has once again lashed out at the International Cricket Council (ICC) over the controversial exclusion of Pakistani officials from the Champions Trophy 2025 final presentation ceremony in Dubai.
PCB Chief Operating Officer Sumair Ahmed, who was present at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium for the final match, claimed the incident stemmed from “mismanagement on part of the ICC.” Speaking at a function in Lahore, Ahmed revealed that he had traveled to Dubai on the instructions of PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, only to find himself sidelined during the trophy presentation.
“Everyone knows who’s involved in this mismanagement,” Ahmed stated, hinting at underlying tensions between the cricket governing bodies. “We did not take the matter in a positive way.”
The PCB has demanded an explanation from the ICC regarding the snub, but Ahmed expressed dissatisfaction with the initial response. “We’ve sent another letter seeking explanation,” he confirmed, underscoring the board’s determination to address the issue.
The controversy has cast a shadow over what should have been a celebratory moment for cricket, with the absence of host nation representation on the podium drawing sharp criticism. While BCCI officials and the New Zealand Cricket CEO were present on stage, the lack of PCB representation was glaringly apparent.
In a separate development, Ahmed acknowledged issues with the newly-renovated Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. He confirmed that one of the stadium’s roofs had leaked during a Champions Trophy match between Australia and Afghanistan, attributing the fault to the contractor. “We have claimed damages and the fault has been removed,” Ahmed assured, highlighting the PCB’s efforts to address infrastructure concerns.
As the row continues to simmer, cricket fans and officials alike await the ICC’s response to the PCB’s renewed demand for clarification on the ceremony controversy.
