The Champions Trophy 2025, hosted by Pakistan, has concluded with Team India, led by Rohit Sharma, emerging victorious. Throughout the tournament, India showcased exceptional performance, winning all their matches, including the final against New Zealand. However, the post-match award ceremony sparked controversy as no official from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) was present during the event, including PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi.
Shoaib Akhtar Criticizes PCB
Former Pakistani fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar condemned the absence of PCB representatives. Expressing his disappointment, Akhtar wrote:
“India has claimed the ICC Champions Trophy, but surprisingly, no official from the Pakistan Cricket Board was seen at the presentation ceremony. Pakistan was the tournament host, yet there was no one from PCB to present the trophy. This is extremely disappointing.”
Despite Pakistan being the host, @TheRealPCB chairman #mohsinNaqvi did not attend the closing ceremony of ICC #ChampionsTrophy bcoz he could not tolerate India's victory. This is jealousy. @ICC should take strict action @JayShah! #ChampionsTrophy2025 #indvsnzfinal #INDvsNZ pic.twitter.com/8rA9Z6hxIj
— Rocky Bhai 🐦 (@Iambakshi) March 10, 2025
Mohsin Naqvi and Jay Shah Did Not Meet
During the tournament, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi had several opportunities to meet ICC Chairman Jay Shah, yet he reportedly maintained his distance. This has left many questioning why Naqvi was absent from both the award ceremony and Dubai altogether.
Wasim Akram Clarifies Naqvi’s Absence
Former cricketer Wasim Akram later explained that Mohsin Naqvi could not attend the final due to health issues. Speaking on a YouTube channel, Akram revealed that Naqvi’s poor health prevented him from traveling. However, PCB officials Sumer Ahmed and Usman Wala were present at the venue, although they did not appear on stage during the ceremony.
