The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has denied reports of financial losses from hosting the ICC Champions Trophy, stating that the tournament significantly boosted the board’s revenue.
Speaking at a press conference, PCB spokesperson Aamir Mir and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Javed Murtaza rejected claims from Indian media, confirming that the board earned Rs 3 billion from the event.
“All tournament expenses were covered by the ICC,” Mir explained. “PCB generated revenue through ticket sales and gate money, and after the audit, we expect an additional Rs 3 billion from the ICC.”
He further stated that the PCB’s initial target of Rs 2 billion in revenue from the Champions Trophy would be exceeded.
Financial Growth Under Mohsin Naqvi
Mir credited PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi for strengthening the board’s financial position, revealing that total revenue for the 2023-24 fiscal year reached Rs 10 billion—a 40% increase.
“With this financial strength, PCB is now among the top three richest cricket boards globally,” he said. “The board has also paid Rs 40 million in taxes.”
Murtaza emphasized Naqvi’s role in setting and revising financial targets, highlighting his active involvement in the board’s fiscal planning.
Stadium Upgrades and Future Plans
Mir praised the rapid renovation of stadiums under Naqvi’s leadership, noting that major upgrades were completed within just four months.
“For the first time in 29 years, Pakistan’s stadiums underwent significant renovations to meet international standards,” he said.
Murtaza outlined PCB’s investment in infrastructure, stating that Rs 18 billion was allocated for stadium upgrades.
“In Phase One, Rs 12 billion was budgeted, with Rs 10.5 billion already utilized,” he said. “The remaining funds will be used to further enhance existing venues.”
Looking ahead, the PCB plans to improve stadiums in Karachi, Faisalabad, and Rawalpindi in the next phase.
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Domestic Player Salaries and ICC Clarification
Addressing concerns over domestic players’ earnings, Mir confirmed that Chairman Naqvi had overturned the decision to reduce their salaries.
Regarding PCB’s absence from the final stage of the ICC Champions Trophy, officials stated they were awaiting a full explanation from the ICC.
To ensure transparency, PCB announced that all financial details related to the tournament’s earnings and expenses would be published on its website.
