DateLine: 27th June 2009

Media Release - 26 June 2009

The PCB expresses disappointment with the decision made yesterday at the IDI Board meeting regarding venues of the 14 matches of the ICC World Cup 2011 initially allotted to Pakistan.

Commenting on the decision Mr. Ijaz Butt, Chairman PCB said "It is obviously disappointing. I thought we had made significant progress till last week but no support from the Asian countries meant that Pakistan may not be able to physically host these games at venues of its choice. But all is not lost we are still optimistic and will continue to pursue this matter in the interest of PCB and Pakistan Cricket"

PCB had defended Pakistan’s position vigorously at various forums since April 2009. The legal notice to ICC, followed by meetings with various stake holders ensured that PCB was able to get favorable response on a number of points of concerns that it had raised with ICC. The most significant being the following:

a). PCB remains a co-host of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011
b). PCB retains the host fee for all of its 14 matches ($ 750,000 per match)
c). PCB remains member of the Central Organizing Committee of the World Cup.

Chairman PCB further said "There are two outstanding issues being the venues of 14 matches and the location of World Cup Secretariat. I still feel there is scope for PCB to work out a solution of these issues which is acceptable to everyone. We will continue to explore various options."

Media Department

(Article: Copyright © 2009 Pakistan Cricket Board)