LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has lodged a formal protest against the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) failure to include its representative in the post-match ceremony of the Champions Trophy final.
Despite the presence of PCB’s Chief Operating Officer Sumair Ahmed Syed — who was also the director of the tournament — at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium during the decider between eventual winners India and New Zealand on Sunday, the official didn’t feature among the dignitaries featured in the ceremony.
The PCB has called out what it believes to be “blatant disregard for Pakistan’s role as the host nation” by the ICC.
“A formal complaint has been lodged with the ICC, demanding an explanation and a public apology,” the board’s spokesperson told Dawn on Monday. “We are appalled by this blatant disregard for Pakistan’s role as the host nation.
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“The ICC’s decision to exclude Mr Syed — who was both the Tournament Director and the PCB Chair’s designated representative — violates its own standard operating procedure,” the board said.
“This is a matter of principle, fairness, and respect for the game’s global stakeholders.”
Mr Syed had attended the final in place of PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who was initially invited by the ICC, but was unwell and couldn’t travel.
“We have demanded a full public clarification and an assurance that such biased and unjust treatment will not happen again.
“The PCB expects professionalism, transparency, and equal representation from cricket’s governing body.
“The PCB has made its stance clear: This is not just about a presentation ceremony — it is about respect, integrity, and the fundamental principles of fair governance in international cricket.
“The world is watching. Will the ICC finally uphold professionalism, or will it continue to cater to selective interests at the cost of cricket’s global integrity?”
India played all their matches in Dubai following the Indian government’s refusal to let its team travel across the border citing security concerns.
