PCB hits back at broadcast rights criticism

Pakistani cricket’s governing body, the Pakistan Cricket Board, has rejected criticism concerning the transparency of its broadcast rights sales process, according to The Nation newspaper.

Former PCB chairman Khalid Mehmood has criticised the current board’s management for its approach to broadcast rights, saying the process lacks transparency.

However, the PCB has countered the claims by highlighting the involvement of former International Cricket Council chairman Ehsan Mani in the process.

The PCB said that a committee will be formed in which Mani will be a member. He will be involved in each stage of the process from the drafting of tender documents through to the signing of an agreement with the successful bidder.

The PCB added that all major broadcasters will be invited to participate in the tender and an independent audit firm will be asked to monitor the entire process. The timeline of the tender process was not disclosed.

A PCB spokesman said: “The PCB chairman does not get involved in this process. This is a tried and tested process which has ample checks and balances to ensure the transparency, robustness and prevention of any conflicts or undue influence. Involvement of a person of Mani’s stature lends further credence to this process. Therefore Khalid Mehmood’s misgivings on transparency in the sale of broadcast rights are unfounded and speculative.”

Earlier this month, the PCB announced that it had enlisted the assistance of Mani as part of an effort to boost its television revenues. Mani has agreed to help sell the PCB’s television rights for the next five years.