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The cricketing landscape in Pakistan was already experiencing significant turmoil, with the men's national team finding it challenging to achieve favorable outcomes in international competitions. Compounding this situation, the financial losses faced by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) due to hosting the ICC Champions Trophy have reportedly created a substantial financial burden. Estimates suggest that the PCB faced an astonishing loss of approximately USD 85 million (equivalent to INR 869 crore) from the tournament, where they participated in only a single home match. In their opening Group A encounter of the Champions Trophy held in Lahore, Pakistan was defeated by New Zealand, and they subsequently traveled to Dubai to take on India. Their final group match against Bangladesh could not take place due to rain, resulting in a cancellation. Following defeats to both New Zealand and India, Pakistan was eliminated from the competition, concluding their campaign with merely one home game.
According to a report by the Telegraph India, the PCB invested about PKR 18 billion (around USD 58 million) to enhance the facilities at their three Champions Trophy venues located in Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Karachi. This expenditure was approximately 50 percent higher than their initial financial estimates. Additionally, reports indicate that the PCB allocated around USD 40 million for the event's organization. In stark contrast, the revenue generated from hosting was minimal, with the PCB reportedly receiving only USD 6 million as part of the hosting fees. Earnings from ticket sales and sponsorship deals were also insignificant. Consequently, the analysis concluded that the PCB suffered a loss close to USD 85 million as a result of hosting the ICC Champions Trophy. This financial setback was reflected in some of the board’s later decisions, including a drastic 90 percent reduction in match fees for the national T20 championship and an 87.5 percent cut in payments for reserve players.
In a report by Pakistan’s Dawn, it was stated, "The PCB had recently decreased match fees from Rs 40,000 to Rs 10,000 without making any formal announcement... however, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi intervened, countering this decision and instructing the domestic cricket department of the board to reevaluate the situation." Additionally, accommodations for players that were previously five-star were replaced with more economical options.
