The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has recently faced significant financial challenges stemming from its hosting of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy which concluded recently. Although there was a lot of anticipation amongst the PCB as it was hosting its first major ICC event after 29 years, the entirety of the event finances resulted in big losses. It has been reported that the PCB spent almost INR 869 crore to prepare and host the tournament. In return, the cricket board was only able to earn about INR 52 crore via the ticket sales and hosting fees of the event.
All in all it is reported that the PCB has suffered a massive loss of approximately INR 739 crore after hosting the Champions Trophy. The repercussions of this loss will be felt by the decisions taken by the PCB in the domestic scenario which includes reduction of match fees and downgrade in player accommodation arrangements.
Why did the PCB suffer such massive losses?
Amongst all the different reasons for this major financial blow, one is that the amount invested by the PCB in the preparation for hosting this tournament; which included major renovations to stadiums etc, was highly over budget. Secondly, since The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) declined to send the Indian team to Pakistan due to safety and diplomacy reasons, it led to the relocation of high-revenue matches, including the India-Pakistan fixture, and high-profile matches like one semi-final and eventually the final of the tournament to Dubai. This shift significantly reduced anticipated earnings from ticket sales and sponsorships.
Also, out of the 10 matches scheduled in Pakistan, three were washed out due to unseasonal rain. Additionally, Pakistan's early exit from the group-stage of the tournament diminished local interest and revenue. These financial challenges highlight the urgent need for the PCB to reassess its financial strategies to ensure the sustainability and growth of cricket in Pakistan.
