For all latest articles, follow on Google NewsIn a crucial meeting with top officials of the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) stood its ground on participating in this year’s ICC Men’s ODI World Cup in India, according to sources familiar with the matter.
During the meeting, the PCB made it clear to ICC Chairman Greg Barclay and Chief Executive Geoff Allardice that the board would abide by the directives of the Pakistan government regarding the World Cup if the Indian team opted not to travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup.
Sources also indicate that the meeting, which discussed issues such as an increase in PCB’s share in ICC revenue and matters concerning the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), failed to reach a conclusive agreement. As a result, negotiations between the PCB and ICC officials will resume tomorrow.
The arrival of the ICC’s high-ranking delegation in Lahore marked a significant development, as it coincided with the ongoing disagreement between the PCB and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding the fate of the 2023 Asia Cup.
Upon their arrival at the PCB headquarters in Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, the ICC officials were received by Mr. Najam Sethi, Chair of the PCB Management Committee and an ICC Director. PCB Chief Operating Officer Barrister Salman Naseer and other board officials were also present during the visit.
This visit holds immense importance as it signifies the first time ICC Chairman Mr. Barclay has visited Pakistan, whereas Mr. Allardice has made regular visits in the past, first as ICC General Manager – Cricket and then as ICC Chief Executive.
Moreover, Mr. Barclay is the first ICC Chairman to tour Pakistan since ICC President Ray Mali’s visit in 2008. This visit also marks the first time since October 2004 that both of the ICC’s top officials have visited the Pakistan cricket headquarters together.
