Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has expressed his deep disappointment over the absence of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) representatives during the Champions Trophy 2025 final presentation ceremony in Dubai. Even though Pakistan were the official host of the tournament, no PCB official was present on stage as India secured their third Champions Trophy title, defeating New Zealand in a thrilling final.
Shoaib Akhtar raises concerns over PCB’s lack of representation
Akhtar, known for his outspoken nature, took to social media to share his frustration. In a video post, he questioned why no PCB representative was present when the trophy was handed over to the victorious Indian team.
“India has won the ICC Champions Trophy. There was one odd thing: no one from the Pakistan Cricket Board during the presentation ceremony. Pakistan is the host of the Champions Trophy, but there was no representative of Pakistan who was standing. No one was there to present the trophy. It is beyond me,” Akhtar remarked in his video shared on his X handle.
This is literally beyond my understanding.
How can this be done???#championstrophy2025 pic.twitter.com/CPIUgevFj9— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) March 9, 2025
Questions raised over PCB’s role as host
Notably, Pakistan were awarded the hosting rights for the 2025 edition of the Champions Trophy, but due to political tensions, the matches of Team India were moved to a neutral venue in the UAE. While the Pakistan team participated in the event and played all their matches at home, their early exit meant they missed out on the latter stages of the competition. However, Akhtar’s remarks have sparked discussions over whether PCB should have ensured a presence at the final, given their status as official hosts.
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India secure 3rd title of Champions Trophy
Speaking about the game, the Black Caps put up a competitive 251/8 in their 50 overs, with Daryl Mitchell anchoring the middle order, but India’s bowlers, led by Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy, ensured the Kiwis never ran away with the game. In response, India got off to a flying start as skipper Rohit Sharma played a captain’s knock, scoring a brilliant 76 off 83 balls, laced with seven fours and three sixes.
However, New Zealand struck back with timely breakthroughs, putting the chase on edge. Just when pressure mounted, Shreyas Iyer steadied the innings with a crucial 48 off 52 balls, forming key partnerships to keep India on track. With the equation tightening, India maintained composure and sealed the win in the 49th over, clinching their third Champions Trophy title and concluding an unbeaten campaign in emphatic fashion.
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