The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reeling from a significant financial setback after hosting the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Reports indicate that the board suffered an 85% loss on its investment, amounting to approximately USD 85 million (INR 869 crore).
The financial strain comes at a time when Pakistan’s cricketing fortunes were already under scrutiny, with the national team struggling to deliver positive results. Pakistan played just one home game in the tournament before their early exit.
They suffered a defeat against New Zealand in Lahore, lost to India in Dubai, and had their final group match against Bangladesh washed out. With two losses, Pakistan failed to progress beyond the group stage, further dampening the tournament’s financial viability.
According to The Telegraph India, PCB spent nearly PKR 18 billion (around USD 58 million) on upgrading stadiums in Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Karachi, exceeding the original budget by 50%. Additionally, event preparations cost the board another USD 40 million.
However, PCB’s earnings from the tournament were minimal, with only USD 6 million generated through hosting fees and negligible income from ticket sales and sponsorships.
This massive financial loss has led to drastic cost-cutting measures. The PCB slashed match fees for the National T20 Championship by 90%, reducing payments from Rs 40,000 to Rs 10,000.
The reserve player payments were also cut by 87.5%. However, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi reportedly intervened, instructing the board to reassess the decision.
Further, cost reductions have extended to player accommodations, with 5-star hotels being replaced with economy lodgings.
These financial constraints highlight the deep impact of the Champions Trophy on Pakistan cricket, raising concerns over the board’s ability to sustain high-profile tournaments in the future.
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