WEBDESK: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has rejected reports of financial losses from hosting the Champions Trophy, stating that the tournament generated record revenue. According to PCB officials, the event brought in approximately Rs 3 billion through ticket sales and gate money. Additional earnings of Rs 3 billion are expected from the International Cricket Council (ICC) after audits, exceeding PCB’s initial target of Rs 2 billion.
Aamir Mir, a PCB spokesperson, clarified that all expenses for the Champions Trophy were covered by the ICC, ensuring that the board made significant profits. He emphasized that rumors of financial losses were baseless.
Under Chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s leadership, PCB’s total revenue for the 2023-24 fiscal year reached Rs 10 billion, marking a 40% increase. This growth places PCB among the top three richest cricket boards globally. The board also paid Rs 40 million in taxes, further strengthening its financial standing.
“All expenses for the tournament were covered by the ICC,” Mir said. “PCB generated revenue through gate money and ticket sales, and after the audit, we expect an additional Rs 3 billion from the ICC.”
The spokesperson stated that the initial target of Rs 2 billion for PCB to earn from ICC Champions Trophy will be surpassed.
Significant investments were made in stadium renovations ahead of the Champions Trophy. Out of a Rs 12 billion budget, Rs 10.5 billion has already been utilized for upgrades. PCB plans to further improve stadiums in Karachi, Faisalabad, and Rawalpindi to enhance future cricket events.
In a positive move for domestic cricket, PCB reversed its earlier decision to cut salaries for local players. Officials have also promised transparency by publishing all financial details related to the Champions Trophy.
With record-breaking revenue and strategic investments, PCB sees the Champions Trophy as a major success. The board remains focused on strengthening Pakistan’s cricketing infrastructure while ensuring financial stability for future tournaments.
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