Even amidst the celebrations of the Indian national team following their triumph in the ICC Champions Trophy, a hint of controversy emerged at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Fans observed the notable absence of representatives from the Pakistan Cricket Board during the trophy presentation, despite Pakistan being the event's host.

The tournament had already been overshadowed by a contentious exchange between the PCB and the BCCI, leading spectators to note that all three individuals present at the ceremony were from India: former BCCI chair and current ICC president Jay Shah, current BCCI president Roger Binny, and BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia.

As questions arose regarding the lack of PCB representation, an ICC spokesperson clarified that no officials from the PCB were present in Dubai, which precluded their attendance at the presentation. This included PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as the minister of the interior for the Pakistani government. The ICC spokesperson stated, "Mr. Naqvi was unavailable and didn’t travel. According to our understanding, only office bearers can be invited for the trophy presentation, and thus no office bearer from the PCB was available for this occasion," while addressing India Today.

PCB set to contact ICC regarding absence of representatives

Although Pakistan served as the tournament's host, all of India's matches took place in Dubai due to safety concerns regarding the travel of Indian players and personnel to Pakistan. Consequently, the final, which was initially scheduled to be held in Lahore, was also relocated to the DICS.

A report from PTI indicated that PCB CEO Faisal Hasnain was in Dubai during the ceremony but was not invited to attend the match or participate in the trophy presentation, despite Pakistan being the sole host. The report further noted that the PCB intended to reach out to the ICC to address a miscommunication related to this matter.

According to a source cited by PTI, "PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi did not travel to Dubai due to prior commitments as the federal minister for interior; however, the PCB CEO was dispatched to represent Pakistan at the final and the closing presentation."

In the end, India's players were awarded the prestigious white jackets in recognition of their victory in the Champions Trophy, with captain Rohit Sharma being named player of the match for his 76 runs in a successful chase of 254 against New Zealand.

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