PCB Lashes Out: No Host Nation Rep at ICC Ceremony

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has protested to the International Cricket Council (ICC) over the lack of a host nation representative at the Champions Trophy final award ceremony in Dubai. The PCB demands an explanation for the oversight and other related incidents, questioning Pakistan's treatment as the event's host.

In a move highlighting growing tensions, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has formally protested to the International Cricket Council (ICC) after the Champions Trophy final in Dubai was conducted without a host nation representative present during the prize distribution ceremony. Geo News reports that PCB Chief Executive Sumair Ahmad Syed, although present at the venue, was absent from the official ceremony.

The PCB's presence was notably marked by the absence of its chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, who was unwell and unable to attend, leading to Sumair representing in his stead. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and ICC leadership were visible, including BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, BCCI president Roger Binny, and ICC chairman Jay Shah.

A spokesperson for the ICC reportedly told Geo News that invites are typically extended to the head of the host board, namely the president, vice president, chairman, or CEO. Despite this, the PCB has also sought formal explanations for various protocol oversights during recent matches, as reported by ESPNcricinfo. These include the omission of Pakistan's name from an official broadcast logo and the incorrect playing of India's national anthem during a match in Lahore.

(With inputs from agencies.)