Last Updated on March 12, 2025 by Misha Bhatia
ICC defends protocol as PCB demands formal clarification over COO Sumair Ahmed’s absence from the closing ceremony stage.
March 12, 2025: What Happened?
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has lodged a formal complaint with the ICC, alleging that its COO Sumair Ahmed was deliberately excluded from the Champions Trophy closing ceremony stage in Dubai.
Also Read: PCB Furious Over ICC Snub at Champions Trophy Ceremony, Rejects Explanation
Why is PCB upset?
- Sumair Ahmed, who was also the Tournament Director, was not invited on stage for the presentation ceremony.
- PCB called it “unacceptable” and a “blatant disregard” for Pakistan’s role as host.
ICC’s Stand:
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- ICC sources confirmed no formal clarification will be provided.
- They emphasized that protocol dictates only CEOs, Chairmen, and Secretaries are invited on stage.
- ICC CEO Geoff Allardice was also absent, which, according to them, aligns with protocol.
Who Was on Stage for the Presentation?
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BCCI President Roger Binny – Presented winners’ jackets & match officials’ medals. ICC Chairman Jay Shah – Handed the Champions Trophy to Rohit Sharma & presented medals. BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia & NZC CEO Roger Twose – Also present.
ICC Clarification:
- ICC pointed out that past Tournament Directors have never been on stage for final presentations.
- Example: Gaurav Saxena (Tournament Director for Asia Cup) was not on stage either.
PCB’s Response & Next Steps
PCB Official’s Statement:
- “The explanations given make no sense to us.”
- Demands a public clarification & assurance this won’t happen again.
- Threatened to escalate the matter to the Board of Governors if no apology is issued.
Key Takeaways
ICC unlikely to offer a formal apology as per protocol. BCCI’s role in presentation seen as natural, given their presence on ICC’s board. Pakistan sees this as disrespectful towards its hosting role. Possible escalation by PCB to ICC’s Board of Governors if issue remains unresolved.
What’s your take? Was it a justified snub or just ICC protocol? 
#CricketControversy #ChampionsTrophy2025 #PCBvsICC
