The International Cricket Council (ICC) has firmly denied recent reports claiming that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to remove the name of the host nation, Pakistan, from their jersey for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Sources within the ICC have clarified that it is a mandatory requirement for all participating teams to prominently display the tournament’s official logo on their kits, which includes the host nation’s name. “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 source emphasized.
The ICC issued this statement in response to reports originating from Indian media outlets, which alleged that the BCCI had decided to omit Pakistan’s name from the jersey of Team India for the upcoming tournament. Rejecting these claims, the ICC reiterated that any team failing to adhere to the regulations regarding logos and branding would face strict disciplinary action.
Displaying the name of the host country on jerseys is a long-standing tradition and an integral part of the tournament’s branding. Even when matches are played in alternate venues, participating teams are still required to follow this rule as a mark of respect to the host nation.
Sources within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have also dismissed the reports as baseless. They confirmed that no official from the PCB has made any statement to Indian news agencies regarding this matter. The PCB further emphasized that it remains committed to upholding the spirit of cricket despite the ongoing tensions between the two boards.
This clarification comes against the backdrop of strained relations between the PCB and the BCCI. Accusations of politicizing cricket have frequently emerged, adding to the contentious atmosphere. Earlier, the Indian government’s decision to not send its cricket team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy forced the ICC to adopt a hybrid model. Under this arrangement, India will play its matches in Dubai while the rest of the tournament takes place in Pakistan.
By addressing these reports, the ICC aims to ensure clarity and maintain focus on the integrity of the tournament and the rules governing international cricket events.