News by “Sana Ullah”
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) management committee chairman Zaka Ashraf embarked on a crucial journey to Dubai on Thursday, accompanied by Chief Operating Officer Salman Naseer. Their destination: a key International Cricket Council (ICC) meeting where the fate of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy hangs in the balance.
Ashraf’s agenda revolves around discussions concerning the hosting of the prestigious tournament. He will not only represent Pakistan’s interests but also engage with the BCCI and other ICC members to find a solution that satisfies all parties involved. The two-day meeting promises to be a melting pot of negotiations and deliberations.
This visit comes on the heels of Ashraf’s recent praise for the Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchises, comparing them to the “backbone” of the tournament. Addressing the PSL 9 drafting ceremony in Lahore, he lauded the league’s growth from a “seed of an idea” in 2016 to a “towering tree” today. He expressed his optimism for the upcoming season, which will see thrilling matches across Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi.
Ashraf’s dual focus on international and domestic cricket demonstrates his commitment to Pakistan’s cricketing future. While navigating the complex waters of international negotiations, he also remains firmly grounded in fostering the local cricketing ecosystem. The success of the Champions Trophy and the PSL are both intertwined with his leadership, making his Dubai trip and the upcoming PSL season particularly significant for Pakistani cricket.
