PCB ready to bear loss of $3 million in case of Asia Cup boycott

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) management committee chairman, Najam Sethi, has revealed the potential financial repercussions of boycotting the 2023 Asia Cup and the 2023 World Cup.

"If we don’t play Asia Cup, we will face a loss of $3 million. If we don’t play World Cup or boycott it, then our relations with ICC will worsen.  India and Pakistan game in a World Cup also holds great significance. Issues will arise," Sethi said in an interview with a local TV channel.

In past, PCB relied heavily on financial support from the International Cricket Council (ICC). However, the Pakistan Super League (PSL) has brought a significant change to PCB's financial situation.

"As far as finances are concerned, my personal opinion is that in the past, PCB was dependent on the money from ICC, so we had to agree to their terms. However, now PSL has made PCB financially independent. We get the same amount from PSL, which we receive from ICC. We have decided that we are ready to bear loss of $3 million in order to protect our honour and political stance," Sethi said.

Sethi acknowledged that Pakistan fans do not want the Men in Green to play in India if India does not reciprocate by playing in Pakistan.

"I know people don’t want us to go to India if India doesn’t come to Pakistan. People want us to stand our ground and not be dictated," he added.