New Delhi: Hosting a major sporting event always involves a financial review to analyze the expenditures and revenues. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is currently facing this challenge after hosting the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. While the exact figures remain undisclosed, preliminary assessments indicate that the financial outcome has not been favorable for Pakistan.
Pakistan reportedly invested thousands of crores to prepare three stadiums for the tournament, with each venue costing over INR 1,000 crore. However, the return on this hefty expenditure remains uncertain. A total of 10 matches were scheduled across three venues, but two matches at Rawalpindi Stadium were washed out due to poor drainage infrastructure.
The Rawalpindi Stadium, which received a budget of INR 1,500 crore for renovations, including LED floodlights, hospitality boxes, upgraded restrooms, and new seating, failed to justify the investment. The ineffective drainage system forced ground staff to use wipers and sponges instead of proper drying equipment, leading to two match cancellations.
Adding to the financial strain, Pakistan spent heavily on grand opening ceremonies featuring international performers. However, with low attendance at the stadiums, ticket sales did little to offset these expenses. While broadcast revenue provided some financial relief, it is uncertain whether it was sufficient to recover the massive costs.
Security Concerns Hamper Future Prospects
The future of international cricket in Pakistan remains uncertain, particularly following the recent attack on the Jaffer Express by the Baloch Liberation Army. The incident, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of 30 Pakistani soldiers, further tarnished Pakistan’s security image. Consequently, foreign teams may hesitate to tour Pakistan, and even Pakistan Super League (PSL) participation by international players may be affected.
Pakistan’s Disappointing Performance in Champions Trophy 2025
The tournament proved disastrous for Pakistan on the field as well. The team failed to win a single match, crashing out in the group stage. They suffered a 60-run defeat in their opening match, followed by a crushing six-wicket loss to India. A crucial match against Bangladesh was abandoned due to rain, leaving Pakistan unable to qualify for the semi-finals. The team ultimately finished in seventh place.
Despite the dismal performance, PCB received approximately INR 2.31 crore from the ICC. The prize money for the seventh and eighth-placed teams was $140,000 (INR 1.22 crore), while Pakistan also earned $125,000 (INR 1.09 crore) for participating in the tournament.
A Stark Contrast to 2017 Triumph
Pakistan’s disappointing campaign in 2025 starkly contrasts with their triumphant Champions Trophy victory in 2017 under Sarfaraz Ahmed’s captaincy. Back then, Pakistan defeated India by 180 runs in the final. However, in the 2025 edition, Pakistan’s batsmen failed to score a single century, and both batting and bowling performances were below expectations.
With Pakistan’s financial and on-field struggles in the spotlight, questions loom over the country’s ability to host future international tournaments successfully.
