Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is facing severe backlash following the abandonment of the crucial Champions Trophy 2025 clash between Australia and South Africa due to rain at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on February 25. The match, which held significant implications for the tournament standings, was washed out without even a toss, raising concerns over inadequate ground preparations.
Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif did not hold back in his criticism, calling out PCB for failing to utilize ICC funds properly. He pointed out the lack of full ground coverage, which allowed rainwater to seep in and disrupt play.
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Taking to ‘X’ (formerly Twitter), Kaif shared a picture of the rain-drenched stadium, slamming the insufficient arrangements. “It’s a shame that the Rawalpindi ground isn’t fully covered. Such an important match—South Africa vs Australia—might go down the drain because no one addressed this issue. Was the ICC money utilised wisely by hosts?” Mohammad Kaif wrote.
It’s a shame that the Rawalpindi ground isn’t fully covered. Such an important match – SA vs Aus – might go down the drain because no one addressed this issue. Was the ICC money utilised wisely by hosts? pic.twitter.com/nPwthd1fji
— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) February 25, 2025
The image revealed that only the pitch and a small surrounding area were covered, leaving the outfield vulnerable. This failure in ground management has reignited concerns over Pakistan’s ability to host major ICC events.
As a result of the washout, Australia and South Africa each gained one point. The Proteas lead Group B with three points and a superior net run rate of +2.140, while Australia, also at three points, trail with a net run rate of +0.475.
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Rawalpindi will host one final game between Pakistan and Bangladesh, both already eliminated. Meanwhile, England and Afghanistan are set for a high-stakes clash in Lahore on February 26, as the Champions Trophy nears its semi-final stage.
