Wasim Akram Expresses Outrage Over Absence of PCB Officials at Champions Trophy Final Ceremony

Sports Cricket

Posted by NewAdmin on 2025-03-11 08:44:38 |

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The conclusion of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final between India and New Zealand was overshadowed by controversy due to the conspicuous absence of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officials during the post-match presentation ceremony. Pakistan, the official host of the tournament, had no representation on stage, leading to widespread criticism from former Pakistani cricketers and raising questions about the International Cricket Council's (ICC) protocols.

Former Pakistani fast bowler Wasim Akram voiced his astonishment during a live broadcast, highlighting the absence of PCB representatives. He noted that while PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi was reportedly unwell and unable to attend, other officials such as Chief Operating Officer (COO) Sumair Ahmad Syed and Director of International Cricket Usman Wahla were present at the venue but were not seen on stage during the ceremony. Akram remarked, "As far as I know, Chairman Saab (PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi) wasn't well, but the people that came from there (PCB) were Sumair Ahmad Syed (Chief Operating Officer of PCB) and Usman Wahla (Director of International for PCB), but no one was there on the stage."

Echoing Akram's sentiments, former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar also expressed his disappointment over the lack of Pakistani representation. He questioned the logic behind the absence, especially given Pakistan's role as the host nation. Akhtar stated, "India have won the Champions Trophy title. But I observed a strange thing—no one from the Pakistan Cricket Board was present. Pakistan are hosting the Champions Trophy. I don't understand the logic."

In response to the growing criticism, the PCB has formally sought an explanation from the ICC regarding the omission of its representatives from the ceremony. The PCB highlighted that Sumair Ahmad Syed, who served as both the Tournament Director and COO, was present in Dubai for the final match but was not included in the post-match trophy presentation.

The ICC addressed the issue by stating that PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi was invited to attend the final ceremony but did not travel to Dubai. An ICC spokesperson clarified, "Mr. Naqvi was unavailable and did not travel to Dubai for the final." The spokesperson further mentioned that the protocols for who is invited on stage during ceremonies are consistent across all tournaments, implying that no exceptions were made during the Champions Trophy.

This incident has sparked a broader debate within the cricketing community about the importance of host nation representation during major ICC events. The absence of PCB officials during such a significant moment has been perceived by many as a slight to Pakistan's contributions and status as the tournament host.

As the situation unfolds, both the PCB and ICC may need to reassess their communication and protocol strategies to prevent similar controversies in future events. Ensuring clear guidelines and mutual understanding between host boards and the ICC is crucial for maintaining the integrity and unity of international cricket ceremonies.

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