No Complimentary Passes for ICC Champions Trophy: A New Era for PCB
Last Updated: February 22, 2025, 18:56 IST
In a groundbreaking move, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has instituted a no-free-pass policy during the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy. This marks a significant shift from its historical practices of distributing complimentary tickets across various categories at international cricket events hosted in Pakistan.
Traditionally, free passes were allocated to media representatives, government officials, VIPs, and sponsors whenever international matches took place in the country. However, this time around, only a limited number of tickets have been reserved for guests of the PCB Chairman and primary sponsors. An insider involved in managing ticket distribution confirmed that no extensive quota of complimentary passes has been set aside for this tournament.
“The PCB is under considerable pressure as those accustomed to receiving free passes are reaching out again,” stated an official source familiar with the ticketing arrangements. “Unfortunately, they are being informed that since control over ticketing now rests with the International Cricket Council (ICC), there will be no tickets available without payment.”
Explaining this situation to government bodies responsible for logistical support and high-profile individuals who expect complimentary access has proven challenging. The source added that during India’s tour to Pakistan in 2004—after a prolonged hiatus—there was immense demand for seats. At that time, then-Chairman Shaharyar Khan faced similar pressures but ultimately reversed his initial decision against free admissions due to stakeholder influence.
This year’s event stands out as every individual seen enjoying matches within stadium enclosures has purchased their own tickets—no exceptions here. Current ticket sales indicate robust interest from fans; notably strong demand is anticipated specifically for Saturday’s highly awaited Australia versus England match scheduled at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
“By evening’s second innings roll-out timeframe,” noted the official source optimistically regarding attendance figures at Gaddafi Stadium on icc-cwc-challenge-league-b/” title=”Catch the Action: How to Watch Hong Kong vs. Uganda Live in the ICC CWC Challenge League B!”>match day,” we expect it to be filled.”
With cricket’s evolving landscape and growing professional standards concerning event management and audience engagement worldwide—including an estimated global fanbase increase exceeding 1 billion recently—the PCB is keen on establishing new norms moving forward.
This article is sourced from PTI and has not undergone editing by News18 staff.
The post Pakistan Cricket Board Shakes Things Up: No Free Passes for Champions Trophy! first appeared on News Sports.
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Author : News-Sports
Publish date : 2025-02-22 14:43:44
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