BCCI Faces Backlash Over Reluctance to Display Pakistan on Team India Jerseys for Champions Trophy
As per ICC regulations, every participating team must display the tournament logo on their jerseys, which includes the host nation's name — in this case, Pakistan.
New Delhi: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has landed in yet another controversy, this time over its reported resistance to including “Pakistan” on the Indian cricket team’s kits for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. As per ICC regulations, every participating team must display the tournament logo on their jerseys, which includes the host nation’s name — in this case, Pakistan.
According to media reports, the BCCI has expressed reservations about adhering to this rule, citing host nation regulations and India’s matches being held in Dubai instead of Pakistan. The International Cricket Council (ICC), however, has reiterated that compliance with tournament branding is mandatory. “It is the responsibility of every team to add the tournament logo to their jerseys. All teams are obligated to comply with this rule,” an ICC official told A-Sports.
The issue stems from the strained relations between the BCCI and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). The tension escalated after the Indian board refused to send its team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, leading to a compromise where India’s matches would be hosted in the UAE instead. Despite this arrangement, the ICC maintains that the host country’s name must be featured on the jerseys of all participating teams, irrespective of where the games are played.
The ICC has reportedly warned of strict action against the Indian team if they fail to comply. While the PCB has denied receiving any official communication from the BCCI on the matter, the Indian board’s reluctance has drawn criticism from cricketing circles and fans worldwide.
“BCCI’s stance on this issue is disappointing. Rules are rules, and they should be followed by every team. Cricket should remain above politics,” said a former ICC official on the condition of anonymity.
The ongoing standoff highlights the deepening rift between the two cricketing boards. The PCB and BCCI have clashed repeatedly in recent months, with bilateral relations at an all-time low. The Champions Trophy controversy is the latest flashpoint in their strained relationship.
Adding to the pressure, the BCCI is set to host multiple ICC events in the coming years, which may put it under scrutiny for its handling of international cricketing obligations.
As the clock ticks down to the Champions Trophy, it remains to be seen whether a resolution will be reached or if this dispute will further strain India-Pakistan cricketing ties. Fans and officials alike will be closely watching how the BCCI navigates this controversy in the days ahead.
