Following the handshake controversy during the India-Pakistan match, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) threatened to boycott the tournament. However, this warning is not so simple to carry out because any such decision could cause Pakistan a financial hit of $12 to $16 million. Let's break down just how damaging this threat could be for Pakistan...
Test cricket playing nations India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan each receive 15% of the Asian Cricket Council's (ACC) annual income. This means 75% of the revenue is divided amongst these nations, while the remaining 25% goes to associate nations. Revenue includes broadcast deals (TV and digital), sponsorships, and ticketing.
Earnings from the Asia Cup
PBC anticipates an income of $12 to $16 million from just this Asia Cup. Exiting would be a serious financial setback for PCB, as it doesn't have the wealth like the BCCI.
Click for: Asia Cup 2025 Points Table
Sony Pictures Network India (SPNI) secured an eight-year deal with the ACC, valued at $170 million, covering broadcasts of Women's and Under-19 Men's Asia Cups.
Source: aajtak
Currently, Mohsin Naqvi from Pakistan is the ACC president. However, as PCB chief, he took a strong stance over Pycroft, holding him responsible for the post-match handshake dispute. The ICC has dismissed calls for Pycroft's removal.
This Just In: Boycott Threats, then Press Conference Canceled... Did the Pakistani Captain Fear Questions?
How Big a Blow for Pakistan?
So the question remains, can Naqvi afford to risk losing approximately $16 million from an estimated $227 million budget? This figure equals roughly seven percent of PCB's annual income. If Pakistan opts out, it would stand alone in the ACC boardroom, with members likely taking issue with its 15% share, given it didn't play major tournament matches.
Click for: Full Schedule of Asia Cup 2025
Broadcasters Under Pressure
Naqvi faces broadcaster pressure as ACC president, as they might refuse to pay the set fee. The India-Pakistan match is a major revenue generator. Without it, broadcasters stand to lose as these ads sell at premium rates.
Source: aajtak
This Just In: Pakistani Fingers Pointed... Mohammad Yousuf Insults Captain Suryakumar on National TV
Overall, Naqvi and Pakistan have much to lose and little to gain. It's likely that Pycroft will remain the referee for Pakistan's match against UAE on Wednesday unless other ACC countries agree to relieve him and swap matches with Ritchie Richardson.
Pakistan Set to Clash with UAE
On Wednesday, Pakistan is set to face UAE in the Asia Cup 2025. This is a crucial match for Super-4 qualification. The winning team will qualify for Super-4. Team India has already secured a place in Super-4, making this a 'do or die' match for both Pakistan and UAE.
