Image: Shoaib Akhtar has slammed the Pakistan Cricket Board for its absence at the final in Dubai / © Cricfit
In the aftermath of India’s Champions Trophy 2025 triumph, former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar slammed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for its absence at the final in Dubai. Despite being the official host of the tournament, no PCB representative attended the trophy presentation, raising eyebrows across the cricketing world.
India secured their third Champions Trophy title with a five-wicket victory over New Zealand. However, PCB’s no-show became one of the biggest talking points. Akhtar, known for his candid opinions, questioned why no official from Pakistan was present at such a significant moment. “Why did no one come to represent Pakistan is beyond my understanding”, he said.
India played all their matches in Dubai due to political tensions, yet they had no issues with the arrangements. The lack of PCB officials has fueled speculation about whether the absence was a deliberate snub or administrative negligence. As debates continue over India’s dominance and Rohit Sharma’s leadership, PCB’s failure to acknowledge the final has put Pakistan’s cricket administration under scrutiny. While India celebrates another ICC title, the PCB is left with serious questions to answer regarding its commitment to international cricket.