Wasim Akram has raised concerns over the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) absence from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 presentation ceremony in Dubai.
The tournament ended with India clinching their third title after defeating New Zealand in the final.
Akram, in a recent interview, noted that it seemed unusual for the host nation’s representatives to be missing from the stage.
He acknowledged reports suggesting that PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi was unwell but pointed out that senior officials Sumair Ahmad and Usman Wahla were present at the venue.
He questioned why neither of them appeared on stage, emphasizing that having a Pakistani official at the ceremony was essential, even if they were not presenting trophies or medals.
Addressing the concerns, the International Cricket Council (ICC) clarified that Naqvi had been invited but did not attend the final in Dubai.
An ICC spokesperson explained that the governing body’s protocol only allows the head of the host board—such as the chairman or CEO—to be part of the ceremony, excluding other board members from stage proceedings.
Despite the ICC’s explanation, Akram’s remarks have ignited debate regarding PCB’s handling of its responsibilities as the host nation.