PCB Faces a Heavy PKR 23 Billion Loss After Hosting ICC Champions Trophy 2025
- Abeera Marium Siddiqui
- March 18, 2025
- 12:40 pm
- 41
- Sports
PCB faces PKR 23 Billion loss after hosting the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, leaving the board in a deep financial crisis due to high expenses and low revenue
PCB faces PKR 23 Billion loss after hosting the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, making it one of the biggest financial setbacks in Pakistan’s cricket history. The board spent heavily on infrastructure and event preparations, but unexpected challenges turned it into a disastrous investment.
Massive Investments with Minimal Returns
To host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, PCB renovated stadiums in Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Karachi. The upgrades cost PKR 18 billion, exceeding the initial budget by 50%. In addition, the board spent $40 million on security, event logistics, and operations.
Despite these heavy investments, revenue generation remained low. PCB earned only Rs 498 crore from ticket sales and hosting fees. This led to a staggering PKR 23 billion ($58 million) loss.
Hybrid Model and Weather Disruptions Worsened the Situation
Pakistan was originally set to host all matches. However, India refused to travel, leading to a hybrid model. As a result, five out of 15 matches were played outside Pakistan. This reduced PCB’s broadcasting revenue and weakened sponsorship deals.
Heavy rains further hurt ticket sales. Several matches in Pakistan were washed out, and Pakistan ended up playing only one completed home game. Recovering from such a financial setback became impossible.
Financial Struggles Extend to Players
The financial crisis hit players hard. Their match fees were slashed by 90%, and accommodations were downgraded. Meanwhile, PCB officials continued to receive full salaries, drawing backlash from fans and analysts.
Pakistan’s Early Exit Added to the Loss
Pakistan’s poor performance made things worse. They crashed out in the group stage, reducing excitement around the tournament. The highly anticipated Pakistan vs. India match took place in Dubai, while another key match was washed out.
With fewer home games, weak sponsorship deals, and poor broadcasting revenue, PCB’s financial disaster became inevitable.
