Rashid Latif has suggested that Pakistan could boycott the ICC Champions Trophy before the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) can take action. This is an extraordinary take by the former cricket captain of Pakistan, who has surprised everyone.
PCB boycotting Champions Trophy could mean Rs 5085 cr for ICC?
Latif’s bold statement comes amid a complex diplomatic and financial standoff that could potentially cost the International Cricket Council (ICC) a staggering Rs 5,720 crore in media rights value. However, this amount comes to the fore if India pulls out, not Pakistan. In case the original hosts, Pakistan, pull out, the loss to ICC would be just Rs 635 crore, saving them nearly Rs 5085 crore.
Speaking at a recent event, Latif minced no words: “Pakistan should boycott the Champions Trophy now. Before the BCCI takes this step, PCB should take it. Champions Trophy shouldn’t happen anymore. We have always been made scapegoats, be it Afghan war or cricket. PCB, ACB, and ICC are the same as they can’t fight against the BCCI. They have got the chance to push Pakistan at the front. We have joined hands and are fighting against it, but the only fear is that if India boycotts, where do we stand?”
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Massive loss for ICC?
The crux of the issue lies in the ongoing tensions between the BCCI and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), with the Indian government firmly resolute about not sending its cricket team to Pakistan. The financial implications are massive. Star India, the primary broadcaster, has warned the ICC that an Indian withdrawal would obliterate 90% of the tournament’s media rights value.
Breaking down the numbers reveals the financial stakes:
- Total value of Champions Trophy media rights: US$750 million (Rs 6,354 crore)
- Total matches in the tournament: 15
- Potential loss if India pulls out: 90% of total media rights value (Rs 5,720 crore)
- Potential loss if Pakistan pulls out: Less than 10% (Rs 635 crore)