Pakistan’s cricket authority faces a daunting financial dilemma as its threat to pull out of the current Asia Cup could lead to a revenue loss of approximately USD 12 to 16 million.
The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) typically distributes its annual revenue, giving 15% each to its five Test-playing nations: India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, accounting for 75% of the total, while Associate nations share the remaining 25%.
This substantial revenue, largely from broadcast deals, sponsorships, and ticket sales, is estimated to bring in USD 12 to 16 million for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) from this Asia Cup alone.
A video titled “Tense faces! Pakistan cricket team arrive at ICC Academy | Will they boycott Asia Cup?” highlights the gravity of the situation.
Adding to the financial stakes, Sony Pictures Network India secured an eight-year deal worth USD 170 million with the ACC for broadcast rights from 2024 to 2031, covering various Asia Cup tournaments, including women’s and Under-19 men’s events.
The controversy stems from PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi, who also holds the influential position of Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Interior and Narcotics Control and chairs the ACC. Naqvi has publicly criticized ICC match referee Andy Pycroft over an incident involving the Indian team’s apparent refusal to shake hands with Pakistani players after a recent match.
However, the ICC has firmly rejected the PCB’s demand to remove Pycroft from his role as match referee.
An anonymous PCB source commented on the predicament: “Can Naqvi risk Pakistan losing around USD 16 million out of a projected budget of USD 227 million for the fiscal year? That will be roughly seven percent of the annual PCB revenue gone. It will be walking on thin ice for him. But again as one of the important ministers of Pakistan, he also needs to keep his respect in front of his countrymen.”
A withdrawal from the tournament could severely compromise the PCB’s standing within the ACC board, potentially impacting their guaranteed 15% annual share for future events. Furthermore, Naqvi’s leadership role within the ACC could be challenged by official broadcasters who might refuse to honor their contractual payments if Pakistan, a key participant, backs out.
The highly anticipated India-Pakistan matches are significant revenue generators, attracting premium advertisement rates for broadcasters. A boycott would lead to considerable financial losses for these stakeholders.
Ultimately, this leaves Pakistan in a precarious position with little to gain and much to lose. In a related development, it was reported that Pycroft is expected to be replaced by Richie Richardson for Pakistan’s upcoming match against UAE.
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