PCB denies financial loss claims from Champions Trophy 2025

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has strongly denied recent reports in the media claiming financial losses from hosting the ICC Champions Trophy, instead revealing that the tournament significantly boosted the board’s revenue.

In a press conference, PCB spokesperson Aamir Mir and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Javed Murtaza addressed the claims, emphasizing that the event contributed Rs 3 billion to the board’s earnings.

"All expenses for the tournament were covered by the ICC," said Mir. 

"The PCB generated revenue through gate money and ticket sales. Additionally, after the audit, we expect to receive another Rs 3 billion from the ICC," he added. 

Mir further explained that the PCB had initially targeted Rs 2 billion in earnings from the Champions Trophy, but they surpassed this goal.

Mir credited PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi for the board's improved financial standing, revealing that the total revenue for the 2023-24 fiscal year reached Rs 10 billion—a 40% increase from the previous year.

"With this financial strength, PCB now ranks among the top three richest cricket boards in the world," Mir said. 

"The board has also paid Rs 40 million in taxes," he further added. 

Javed Murtaza added that Naqvi played a key role in revising the fiscal targets, showing active involvement in improving the board’s financial performance.

Mir highlighted the significant upgrades to stadiums under Naqvi’s leadership. He noted that the PCB had completed major renovations in just four months, ensuring that venues now meet international standards.

"After 29 years, a major stadium upgrade project was undertaken, which was a significant task," Mir added. 

Murtaza shared more details on the PCB's financial investments, confirming that the budget for stadium upgrades was set at Rs 18 billion. For Phase One of the project, Rs 12 billion was allocated, and Rs 10.5 billion has already been spent.

"The remaining funds will be used to further improve these and other stadiums, including those in Karachi, Faisalabad, and Rawalpindi," Murtaza added.

Mir addressed concerns regarding the reduction in domestic player compensation, confirming that Naqvi had reversed the decision to cut their salaries.

Regarding the PCB’s absence from the final stages of the ICC Champions Trophy, the officials stated that they were still awaiting a full explanation from the ICC.

Finally, the PCB announced that all financial figures related to the tournament’s earnings and expenses would be made publicly available on the board’s official website for transparency.