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NRIPage | Articles | PCB Faces Rs 869 Crore Loss in Champions Trophy 2025; Match Fees and Hotel Budgets Cut | Get General Articles. Stay Informed on a World of Topics - NRI Page
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly suffered an estimated Rs 869 crore (USD 85 million) loss after hosting the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, resulting in severe budget cuts across various sectors of Pakistani cricket. This substantial financial setback has prompted drastic cost-cutting measures, including reductions in match fees and player accommodations. The financial blow stems from heavy investments in stadium upgrades and event preparations. According to a report by The Telegraph India, the PCB had invested approximately PKR 18 billion (USD 58 million) to upgrade key Champions Trophy venues in Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Karachi. The renovation costs exceeded the initial budget estimates by nearly 50 percent.
Additionally, the PCB reportedly spent USD 40 million on event preparations. However, the anticipated financial returns failed to materialize, with PCB earning only USD 6 million as part of the hosting fee, while revenue from ticket sales and sponsorships was minimal. The tournament’s structure added to the financial strain, as Pakistan played only one match at home in the group stage before traveling to Dubai for the remaining fixtures. Pakistan's campaign ended in disappointment after losing to New Zealand in Lahore and India in Dubai, with their final match against Bangladesh being washed out without a ball bowled.
Post-Tournament Impact and Cost-Cutting Measures
The PCB’s financial struggles have triggered significant changes in domestic cricket management.
The PCB announced a 90 percent reduction in match fees for players participating in the National T20 Championship, slashing payments from Rs 40,000 to Rs 10,000.
Payments for reserve players have also been cut by 87.5 percent.
The board has reportedly shifted player accommodations from 5-star hotels to economy hotels to reduce costs.
Following public backlash, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi intervened to reverse the decision on reduced match fees, instructing the board’s domestic cricket department to reassess the matter. The severe financial impact has further amplified concerns about the PCB’s management and planning strategies. The costly Champions Trophy experience highlights the economic risks associated with hosting major cricket tournaments without securing significant commercial returns. With the PCB now focused on financial recovery, the board is expected to take a more cautious approach in future international hosting decisions while exploring new revenue strategies to stabilize its finances.
