PCB Fears Embarrassment; Champions Trophy 2025 To Move Out?

Mohsin Naqvi firm to post ENG Vs PAK (X)Mohsin Naqvi firm to post ENG Vs PAK (X)

In the latest development, Pakistan Cricket has been in the spotlight again as the clock ticks down to the start of the Pakistan-England Test series. The PCB faces mounting pressure to finalise the itinerary and address concerns about the availability of the venues for the series. 

Chairman Mohsin Naqvi firmly rejected the possibility of moving the series outside Pakistan. The lack of clarity regarding the series is causing significant headaches for the board and has raised several eyebrows. 

PCB Keen To Host ENG Vs PAK Test Series In Pakistan

According to the reports of PTI, at a media event, Naqvi expressed frustration over the delays in finalising the itinerary, particularly with less than a month to go before the series. 

The lack of clarity has left both the PCB and the ECB in a state of uncertainty. Sources close to the situation have reported that the board is still undecided about where the first Test will be played.

"With less than a month remaining for the first Test, the international department is yet to even decide where the first match would be held. The Chairman has made it clear that relocating the series would damage the image of the PCB, and Rawalpindi and Multan should be used as the venues for the three-match series," an insider confided to PTI.

The delay in finalising the venues is affecting the PCB’s ability to generate revenue from the series. Naqvi is reportedly unhappy with the prolonged indecision, as it impacts the board’s revenue opportunities from the three-match series. 

According to the source, the delay in announcing the itinerary and venues has also created challenges for broadcasters. 

“Even the broadcasters who have bought the rights to sell the series internationally are worried as they are yet to find a buyer to show the matches in the UK,” the source added.

The three-match series is scheduled to begin on October 7 with matches slated for Multan, Karachi, and Rawalpindi. However, ongoing construction work at these venues ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has raised concerns about their availability.

Pakistan To Host Champions Trophy 2025 

Despite the ongoing speculation and discussions surrounding the hosting of the Champions Trophy in Pakistan, the ICC Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Geoff Allardice recently reaffirmed Pakistan's status as the sole host for the upcoming Champions Trophy in 2025. This decision remains unchanged despite the BCCI's reluctance to play in Pakistan due to political tensions.