After India Walkout, PCB Bans Use of ‘Pakistan’ in Private Cricket Leagues

PCB Reacts After India’s Double Boycott

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has barred privately-run cricket leagues from using the country’s name without official approval. The decision follows India Champions’ refusal to face Pakistan Champions twice during the 2025 World Championship of Legends (WCL).

Telecom Asia Sport reported that PCB officials expressed anger during a board meeting, citing “repeated disrespect” from Indian players.

India Refused to Play Pakistan After Terror Attack

Yuvraj Singh and other Indian legends first pulled out of a league match against Pakistan days after the Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen. Both teams received one point after the no-show. That point helped India scrape into the semifinals despite a poor run.

But the controversy deepened when India again refused to face them in the WCL semifinal. Pakistan, featuring big names like Shahid Afridi and Shoaib Malik, advanced to the final by default.

PCB Advises Strict Action

The Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC) Ministry, which oversees sports in Pakistan, has reportedly advised the PCB to act firmly. It raised concerns about national image and urged tighter controls over team branding in unsanctioned events. The PCB responded by requiring formal clearance before any team uses the name ‘Pakistan’ in future private or franchise-based tournaments.

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Final Goes Ahead, But With Limits

PakistanChampions will still play the WCL final against South Africa on Saturday. However, under the new rule, no future team may use the name Country’s name without PCB’s approval. Sources say the move aims to protect Pakistan’s dignity in international events, especially when political tensions spill into sports.