PCB struggling to find a sponsor for the side ahead of England series

In the much-anticipated series, Pakistan are set to flag off their cricketing scenario by playing three Tests and as many T20Is against England. To curb the risk of COVID-19 transmission, the matches will be played without spectators and the players will be in a biosecure environment during the course of the series. Moreover, the players will brace the field while keeping in mind the interim ICC regulations.

The news of 10 players testing COVID-19 positive had stunned the PCB. However, six out of these players were subsequently tested negative, giving the board a sigh of relief. Meanwhile, a batch of 20 Pakistan players already landed in England, earlier this week, to kick-off their training sessions for the series.

Only one company has shown interest in the bidding process

Ahead of the series, one matter of concern for the PCB is to find a sponsor before the matches commence. The Pakistan board is struggling to find a sponsor and only one company showed interest during the bidding process.

PCB’s last sponsorship contract was with a beverage brand which has already expired. The contract expiration was evident after Pakistan players in England were spotted without a sponsor logo on their training kits. The solitary company which had shown interest during the bidding process has valued the deal at only 30 per cent, adding to PCB’s woes.

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to major cricketing boards suffering losses during the absence of international cricket. According to the PCB’s marketing department, the coronavirus outbreak is primarily the reason behind the lack of interest shown by companies. However, the board is hopeful on getting sponsor on board before the England series commences.

Along with the board, getting a sponsorship deal also helps players as they receive around Rs 450,000 in Test matches and Rs 225,000 in One-day Internationals (ODIs) and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is).

The Azhar Ali-led side will start their red-ball expeditions from August 5 in Manchester, followed by the remaining two games in Southampton, starting on August 13 and 21 respectively. Post the Test series, Pakistan, led by Babar Azam, will lock horns with England in three T20Is in Southampton on August 29, 31 and September 2.