The cricketing world is abuzz with controversy as the ICC Champions Trophy approaches. The spotlight is now on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which reportedly opposed having ‘Pakistan’ printed on Team India’s kits as part of the tournament logo.
ICC’s Stand on Host Nation Regulations
According to reports, the ICC has taken a firm stand, emphasizing that all participating teams are obligated to feature the tournament logo, including the name of the host country, on their jerseys. “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 official stated. The apex cricketing body has also warned of strict action if any team fails to comply.
BCCI’s Reluctance and Media Reports
Media reports claim that the BCCI isn’t keen to include ‘Pakistan’ on Team India’s jerseys due to ongoing political tensions between the two nations. The Indian board has reportedly suggested that matches involving the Indian team may be played in Dubai, instead of Pakistan. However, the ICC’s regulations require that the host country’s name be featured, regardless of where the matches are held.
PCB’s Response to Allegations
Interestingly, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has denied receiving any formal objection from the BCCI on this matter. The PCB and BCCI have been at odds for months, especially after India refused to send its team to Pakistan for the tournament. This standoff had led to a compromise, though it appears the disagreements are far from over.
Implications for Team India
The controversy doesn’t stop with jersey regulations. Questions also linger over Indian captain Rohit Sharma’s potential travel to Pakistan for a pre-tournament event involving all team captains. Whether the BCCI will allow Sharma to cross the border remains uncertain.
