The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly stopped cricket teams from using the country’s name in private leagues.Â
As reported by Telecom Asia Sport, the matter was discussed in a PCB Board of Directors meeting on Thursday. They noted that Indian players had refused to play against Pakistan twice in the second edition of the World Championship of Legends (WCL).
As a result, the PCB decided to put a complete stop to the use of 'Pakistan' in the names of privately run cricket teams. The ban will take effect immediately, although the current Pakistan Champions side has been allowed to participate in Saturday’s WCL 2025 final against South Africa.
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Also read: WCL 2025: India Legends to boycott playing against Pakistan Legends in the semis: Report
PCB Bans Use of 'Pakistan' Name in Private Leagues Following WCL Stand-Off
Officials confirmed that the decision was reached after extensive internal debate. The matter was discussed in detail with the consensus being that no use of the country’s name should be allowed in private leagues.
"The decision was taken after a detailed discussion in the Board of Directors meeting on Thursday," sources were quoted as saying to Telecom Asia Sport.
"The high-level authorities felt Indian players refusing to play Pakistan in the WCL’s second edition twice is hurtful to the name of the country," the sources added.
Reports also point out that various private groups have used the name to play in smaller, low-profile tournaments in nations like Zimbabwe, Kenya, and the USA. From now onwards, any unauthorised use of 'Pakistan' in such contexts will invite legal action.
"All private organisations will face legal action in case they use Pakistan’s name. PCB has the sole right to allow its use for cricket events if it finds the authenticity of the League and the organisation as reputable."
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Government Advisory Urges PCB to Monitor 'Pakistan' Name in Cricket
The Pakistan government and the Inter-Provincial Coordination Committee (IPC), which oversees sports in the country, have also advised the PCB to regulate the use of the country’s name in private cricket leagues.
