ICC finally 'thanks' PCB for Champions Trophy, Jay Shah avoids mentioning Pakistan

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has finally extended its gratitude to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for successfully hosting the Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, which concluded on Sunday.

The tournament marked the return of the prestigious event after an eight-year hiatus and was Pakistan’s first ICC-hosted competition since 1996.

The eight-team tournament featured 15 matches played across Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi from February 19 to March 9. However, eventual champions India controversially played all their matches in Dubai.

In an official statement released on ICC’s website, ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice commended the PCB for its efforts in organizing the event, highlighting the renovation of major stadiums and the preparation of competitive playing surfaces.

“We would like to thank and congratulate the Pakistan Cricket Board for successfully hosting the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025,” Allardice stated.

“This was the first global multi-team event in the country since 1996, making it a significant milestone for the PCB. Those involved in stadium renovations, pitch preparations, and match organization should be very proud.”

Allardice also acknowledged the role of the Emirates Cricket Board in hosting five matches in Dubai, recognizing their continued support in staging major ICC events.

Meanwhile, ICC Chairman Jay Shah expressed his appreciation for the teams, fans, and stakeholders involved in making the tournament a success.

Interestingly, he left out mentioning Pakistan as the tournament host, which led to much criticism on X (formerly Twitter).

“tournament hosts” ✅️
“PCB” ❌

— Raju PP (@rajupp) March 12, 2025

As an ICC chairman, this clown must say thanks to the tournament host Pakistan. Because of them, the matches were possible in a newly renovated stadiums in a very short time.

— ‏‎آســــᷦــᷧــᷤــⷶـــاز (@sjq_76) March 12, 2025