PCB To Face Huge Loss If Pakistan Pull Out Of Asia Cup – Report

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), under the leadership of Mohsin Naqvi, has raised the possibility of pulling out of the Asia Cup 2025 due to dissatisfaction with the appointment of ICC match referee Andy Pycroft. This dispute has created a major controversy, with Pakistan strongly objecting to Pycroft’s role after recent match-related incidents. Despite PCB’s demands, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has refused to replace him, escalating tensions between the two bodies.

If Pakistan follows through on its withdrawal threat, the repercussions will extend far beyond just cricketing politics, directly affecting the board’s finances and regional cricket governance.

A Massive Financial Hit for PCB

Reports suggest that Pakistan’s exit from the Asia Cup could cost the board between USD 12–16 million, which is approximately ₹ 105-141 crore. This figure represents a substantial share of the PCB’s projected annual revenue of around USD 227 million. In financial terms, it would mean a loss of nearly 7% of the yearly income — a setback that could disrupt various cricket development and operational plans.

The revenue at stake is derived from multiple sources, including broadcast rights, sponsorship agreements, ticket sales, and digital viewership. As per the Asian Cricket Council’s distribution structure, full member nations, including Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, each receive 15% of the body’s earnings. This shared pool accounts for 75% of the total distribution, while the remaining portion is allotted to associate member nations.

By pulling out, PCB risks losing its guaranteed share, as broadcasters are unlikely to release payments for matches not played, especially the high-demand India vs Pakistan encounters, which are the tournament’s biggest revenue drivers.

Wider Consequences Beyond Money

While the financial loss itself is daunting, the implications for Pakistan’s cricketing stature may be even more significant. Walking away from the Asia Cup could isolate the PCB within the Asian Cricket Council, undermining its influence in the region’s cricketing affairs.

Moreover, such a decision could strain Pakistan’s relationships with other full member nations, who depend on balanced governance and revenue-sharing to keep the tournament running successfully. The controversy also places Mohsin Naqvi in a difficult position, given his dual role as both PCB chairman and head of the ACC.

Balancing national interests with regional responsibilities is a challenge, and an abrupt withdrawal could damage Pakistan’s long-term credibility. With the Asia Cup being a vital precursor to major ICC events, Pakistan’s absence would not only hurt its own finances but also impact the tournament’s overall prestige and commercial viability.