Mon Mar 10 01:30:00 UTC 2025: ## India Wins ICC Champions Trophy 2025; Pakistan’s Absence at Trophy Ceremony Sparks Controversy
**Dubai, UAE** – Team India emerged victorious at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, defeating New Zealand in the final. The tournament, officially hosted by Pakistan, saw India’s matches played in Dubai. However, the absence of any Pakistani representatives at the trophy presentation ceremony has sparked significant controversy.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) cited personal reasons for the absence of its officials. Reports suggest PCB Chairman Ramiz Raja was unavailable due to parliamentary commitments, while Chief Operating Officer, Subair Ahmad, despite being in Dubai, did not attend.
Former Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Akhtar criticized the PCB’s actions, questioning why no representatives were present at such a significant ICC event. His sentiments were echoed by other cricket pundits and former players, who voiced their displeasure at the lack of representation from the host nation. Speculation suggests the snub might be a reaction to India’s victory.
Pakistan, the defending champion, failed to win a single match in the tournament, failing even to reach the semi-finals. The ICC, however, stated that the invitation list for the podium ceremony is decided by their team. While the PCB COO was in Dubai, he was not invited to join the presentation.
The ceremony was attended by ICC Chairman Jay Shah, BCCI President Roger Binny, BCCI Secretary Devjit Saikia, and New Zealand Cricket Board director Roger Twose. The incident has cast a shadow over India’s triumph and raised questions about the PCB’s conduct.
First Piper 