ICC slammed for 'mishandling' Pakistan's Champions Trophy hosting role

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The International Cricket Council (ICC) is facing strong backlash from Pakistani cricket fans and analysts, who accuse the global body of displaying an alleged bias against Pakistan as the host of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy.

The controversy erupted following an ICC press release about the tournament’s upcoming trophy tour, which omitted any reference to Pakistan's role as the host nation and made no mention of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) or local venues, Express News reported.

Fans and analysts criticised the release for deviating from ICC’s usual practice of acknowledging host countries and their contributions.

Many were surprised that the statement lacked references to the PCB, its officials, or specific Pakistani venues. The perceived slight has fuelled widespread disappointment and concern among Pakistan’s cricket community.

In a move adding to fan frustration, the ICC’s trophy tour schedule was reportedly altered without prior consultation with Pakistani officials.

The lack of transparency over these changes has prompted calls for accountability and an explanation from the ICC. Social media has become a central outlet for fans expressing frustration, with some describing the omission as an undermining of Pakistan's position as host.

The PCB has yet to issue an official statement on the matter, but experts warn that the tension could impact the ICC’s relationship with Pakistan, a key cricket-playing nation.

Pakistani fans are now questioning whether this lack of acknowledgment might extend into the tournament itself, potentially downplaying Pakistan's role on the global cricket stage.

The controversy also raises broader concerns about the future of international cricket in Pakistan, which has only recently seen a resurgence of foreign teams playing on its soil after years of security concerns.

Observers are calling for immediate measures to address the issue, as the controversy could cast a shadow over the upcoming tournament and affect Pakistan’s standing in international cricket.

Moreover, in response to India’s refusal to tour Pakistan for the Champions Trophy set to take place next year, PCB has begun seeking support from other cricket boards to ensure the event’s success.

Mohsin Naqvi met with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) head, Richard Thompson, in London on Friday to discuss the tournament's status and update Thompson on Pakistan's stance regarding the issue, Express News reported.

Thompson expressed well wishes for the PCB, recalling England's “outstanding” recent tour of Pakistan and voicing his hope for a successful Champions Trophy.

Thompson thanked Naqvi for Pakistan’s hospitality during England's tour and reassured him of England’s support for the tournament’s successful hosting.

PCB assures security and modern facilities

Naqvi assured Thompson that Pakistan is fully prepared to host the Champions Trophy, with modernised stadiums and strict security measures, including state guest protocols, ready to accommodate all participating teams.

Indian stance challenged amid comprehensive security plans

According to PCB sources, Pakistan’s "master security plan," shared with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on October 10, has not faced objections from any International Cricket Council (ICC) members as of the October 21 board meeting.

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