The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is facing severe criticism for not sending a single representative to the 2025 Champions Trophy final held at Dubai International Stadium on Sunday. Despite India’s thrilling four-wicket win against New Zealand, PCB officials were noticeably absent from the prize distribution ceremony, sparking controversy.

Details & Context

- India defeated New Zealand by four wickets in the Champions Trophy final.

- The prize distribution ceremony saw the presence of ICC Chairman Jay Shah, BCCI President Roger Binny, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia and New Zealand Cricket (NZC) Director Roger Twose.

- Surprisingly, no PCB officials were seen on stage, raising questions about Pakistan’s involvement despite being the official tournament hosts.

- PCB had the responsibility of organising the 2025 Champions Trophy but due to security concerns, BCCI had already declared that Team India wouldn’t travel to Pakistan.

- As a result, all of India’s matches were shifted to Dubai including the final.

Quotes

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar expressed his confusion and concern on social media

“India won the Champions Trophy but I noticed something strange. No PCB official was present at the prize distribution ceremony. Pakistan was the host of this tournament. What’s the reason behind their absence.?”

He further questioned

“Why wasn’t any PCB official present at such a global cricket event.? This is a matter to think about seriously. PCB’s presence was crucial but I didn’t see any of their representatives.”

Additional Information

- The absence of PCB officials has fuelled speculations about internal conflicts and their strained relations with BCCI.

- Many cricket fans and analysts have raised concerns about Pakistan’s lack of representation at their own hosted tournament.

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Impact Analysis

- The incident has intensified the ongoing cricket rivalry between India and Pakistan.

- It highlights the growing political and security issues affecting cricket diplomacy in the subcontinent.

- The absence of PCB officials could potentially damage Pakistan’s reputation as a reliable host for future international cricket events.

The controversy surrounding PCB’s absence from the Champions Trophy final has added more fuel to the India-Pakistan cricket rivalry. As India celebrates their victory, questions about Pakistan’s role as the host remain unanswered.

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