Ahead of India vs Pakistan, PCB unhappy over name snub in broadcast graphics

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) raised concerns after Pakistan's name was missing from the broadcast brand band during India's match against Bangladesh in the Champions Trophy. The ICC attributed the issue to a technical glitch and assured the PCB that it would not happen again.

In Short

• Pakistan's name was omitted from the broadcast band during India vs Bangladesh
• The complete logo, with Pakistan's name, featured in the broadcast band in other matches
• India will take on Pakistan in the marquee clash on Sunday

The Champions Trophy 2025 has been no stranger to controversy. India's refusal to travel to Pakistan over security concerns and Pakistan's initial reluctance to host the tournament in a hybrid model led to delays in announcing the schedule and venues for the marquee eight-team event. At one point, there was even uncertainty over whether the competition would proceed as planned before both parties reached an agreement, ensuring the return of the prestigious one-day international tournament.

In the lead-up to the Champions Trophy, reports emerged about India's jerseys allegedly omitting the Pakistan imprint, which is part of the official tournament logo. However, the BCCI told India Today that it would follow the rules and regulations of the tournament and feature the imprint in India's jersey. There was also chatter about the Indian flag not being hoisted at match venues in Pakistan.

Now, a fresh controversy has surfaced regarding the broadcast brand band that features the Champions Trophy logo. During India's game against Bangladesh in Dubai on Thursday, 20 February, Pakistan's name was missing from the brand band. In contrast, the previous three matches of the tournament had displayed 'Champions Trophy 2025 Pakistan' in the broadcast graphics.

The omission did not go unnoticed, with many on social media speculating whether it was a deliberate move by the broadcasters.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has since demanded an explanation from the ICC. In response, the global cricket body attributed the issue to a technical glitch on the broadcaster's end, according to a report by ESPNcricinfo. The graphics are prepared and provided for the live feed by UK-based production company Sunset & Vine under ICC’s supervision, the report added.

The ICC has assured the PCB that such glitches will not occur again and that the full brand band, including Pakistan's name, will be displayed during all remaining matches.

Meanwhile, India and Pakistan are gearing up for the tournament’s most highly anticipated clash, set to take place in Dubai on Sunday, February 23.

India enter the contest after a comfortable six-wicket win over Bangladesh, whereas Pakistan were handed a 60-run defeat by New Zealand in their opening match.

A loss to India would put Pakistan in serious danger of an early exit from their home tournament, significantly denting their hopes of reaching the semi-finals. New Zealand currently top Group A, followed by India.