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'Promises Were Not..,': Ex-PCB Chairman Slams BCCI For Champions Trophy Controversy

Rajgeeta Yadav

Ex-PCB Chairman Slams BCCI [Source: ICC/X.com]Ex-PCB Chairman Slams BCCI [Source: ICC/X.com]

India are the most celebrated team around the world, when it comes to cricket and it’s no secret that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) holds significant power in international cricket. Since cricket is heavily influenced by financial strength, and BCCI generates the most revenue, the International Cricket Council (ICC) often aligns with its decisions.

The latest controversy surrounding the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is a clear example. BCCI refused to send its team to a specific host nation, prompting ICC to announce Dubai as a co-host. As a result, the team will play all its matches there, which many believe gives them an unfair advantage.

Former PCB Chairman Ehsan Mani Criticizes BCCI

This decision has also led to frustration among officials, as it means the tournament’s three most commercially valuable matches will now be played elsewhere. Speaking to Hindustan Times, former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ehsan Mani expressed his frustration, saying the blame lies with the BCCI rather than the ICC.

“This isn’t about the ICC, it’s the BCCI’s decision. They chose not to tour Pakistan,” Mani stated.

He further explained that an agreement was in place, but the Indian board did not honour it.

“Pakistan agreed to tour India for the World Cup, and when I was PCB chairman, the BCCI had made commitments. The ICC minutes even recorded assurances that the BCCI and the Indian government would ensure proper visas for Pakistani journalists, fans, and officials,” Mani added.

Having served as ICC President from 2003 to 2006, Mani understands the inner workings of international cricket governance. He now hopes that Jay Shah, the current ICC Chairman, will address the issue and ensure better coordination between the BCCI and PCB.

“These promises were not fulfilled. So, ultimately, the decision lies with the BCCI. Jay Shah, now ICC Chairman, has played a key role in Indian cricket. It’s his duty to ensure such situations don’t happen again,” he said.

ICC Approves India-Pakistan Hybrid Model Till 2027

Meanwhile, ICC has announced that all India-Pakistan matches in ICC events between 2024 and 2027 would be played at neutral venues. This decision means that instead of playing in India, Pakistan will now play its T20 World Cup 2026 matches in Sri Lanka.