The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has criticized the International Cricket Council (ICC) after India’s national anthem mistakenly played for a brief moment before the Australia vs. England Champions Trophy match on Saturday. The PCB has demanded an explanation from the global governing body regarding the incident.
Unintentional Anthem Mix-Up
At the start of the match, when Australia and England lined up for their respective national anthems, spectators were left puzzled as India’s anthem played for a second before abruptly stopping. A source close to the ICC revealed that the PCB had sent a letter to the ICC, questioning how such an error occurred.
The PCB has made it clear that the ICC needs to offer some explanation as their people are responsible for the (national anthem) playlist of teams in the Champions Trophy.
“Since India is not playing in Pakistan, it is hard to understand how their anthem was played by mistake from the playlist,” the source said.
India’s Matches Held in Dubai
India had refused to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, citing security concerns. As a result, all of India’s matches are being played in Dubai, including their crucial clash against Pakistan on Sunday—a match that could eliminate Pakistan from the tournament if they lose.
Previous PCB Complaint Over Logo Display
This is not the first instance of PCB raising concerns with the ICC. The board had previously written to the governing body after Pakistan’s name and logo were not displayed on TV screens during India’s match against Bangladesh in Dubai on Friday.
The ICC later clarified that it was a mistake and assured the PCB that all matches in Dubai would now feature the correct three-line horizontal logo with Pakistan’s name.
ICC Yet to Respond
With the anthem mix-up now adding to the controversy, the ICC has not yet provided an official response to PCB’s latest complaint. All eyes are now on the governing body’s next move as the Champions Trophy continues.
