According to sources, the PCB’s Board of Governors unanimously agreed that no team or franchise can use the name "Pakistan" (or “Pakistan Champions”) in any domestic or international league unless they secure explicit permission from the PCB.

This decisions come at a crucial time as tensions between India and Pakistan are on all time high ever since India Champions team refused to play Pakistan Champions in the semi-final due to political sensitivities. As a result, Pakistan Champions advanced directly to the final via walkover. This decision followed an earlier withdrawal by the Indian side from a group match against Pakistan Champions in the same tournament.

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The PCB said the move aims to protect Pakistan’s brand and reputation in the global cricketing landscape, especially amidst controversies surrounding team withdrawals and sensitive narratives.

Despite the controversy, Pakistan Champions will still be allowed to compete in this season’s WCL final, after being awarded a walkover in the semi-final.

The PCB wants to ensure that the Pakistan name remains associated with goodwill and professionalism. Without PCB’s go ahead no No entity can carry the Pakistan tag . This prevents misuse or misalignment with Pakistan’s image. This follows WCL fallout where India Champions refused to play, adding controversy to the use of the Pakistan name in a foreign league. The Board will now require permission for any future use of Pakistan or Pakistan Champions names in franchises or competitions.

PCB’s thought out move balances national identity with porting and global league representation in one move.