Mohsin Naqvi Defends PCB Amidst Ticketing Controversy
The ICC Champions Trophy has seen strong ticket sales, particularly for high-profile matches, and the PCB's decision to allocate tickets through sales has put pressure on officials, while Naqvi's comments have added to the tension surrounding the tournament, with the PCB chairman expressing confidence in Pakistan's chances and reassuring the national team of the board's support.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has taken a firm stance on the board's decision not to distribute free passes for enclosures, VIP areas, or hospitality boxes during the ICC Champions Trophy, a departure from past practices that has put pressure on PCB officials.
The PCB has instead chosen to allocate tickets through sales, with the response being particularly strong for the Australia vs England match at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. This decision has caused some tension among stakeholders, who are accustomed to receiving complimentary passes. However, the PCB remains committed to its new approach, with only a few tickets reserved for the Chairman's personal guests and sponsors.
Meanwhile, Naqvi has also addressed the incident where the Indian national anthem was played before the Australia-England match at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium, an incident that the ICC is currently investigating. Naqvi questioned how India would react if a similar incident occurred in Lahore during their match, and expressed confidence in Pakistan's chances against India, stating that the team is fully prepared for a competitive match.
The PCB's decision on ticketing and Naqvi's comments on the Indian national anthem incident have sparked significant discussion, with the board's stance being seen as a significant shift in its approach to hosting international cricket events. As the tournament progresses, the PCB will be closely watched to see how it navigates these challenges and ensures a successful event.
