LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) four-nation Super Series involving Pakistan, India, Australia and England could generate up to USD 650 million as per the estimation of the cricket board, which is approximately PKR 11,895 crores.
According to ESPNcricinfo, the proposal will be presented formally at the International Cricket Council (ICC) Board meeting on April 10 in Dubai which will be attended by PCB Chairperson Ramiz Raja and Chief Executive Faisal Hasnain.
The PCB has suggested a window for the event in September-October that could be an ideal period because it is the beginning of the season in Australia, India and Pakistan and near the end of the English season.
The format is planned for a single-league structure of six league games, concluded by either a one-off or best-of-three finals, played in two weeks. Hosting rights for the tournament are expected to run on a rotational basis, with ICC taking control of the event.
The estimation suggests that such a tournament could bring in USD 650 million through media and commercial rights and that the money would be distributed between the four sides and other ICC members.
“It is not clear what the breakdown will be of the revenue, but it is thought that a significant portion could go towards the non-participating Full Members and Associate members,” the report stated.
A PCB official who is familiar with the plan said: “This is a strategic paper in which the ICC and its members have been encouraged and invited to explore an untapped event opportunity around traditional rivalries in cricket, turn them into a cricket extravaganza, attract a new generation of cricketers, speed up cricket development and maximise revenues for the members.”
“This concept not only provides context; it will also become a much-anticipated event across the globe as cricket fans and followers want to see Pakistan play India or Australia take on England or India meet England or Pakistan face Australia on an annual basis.” PCB official added.
PCB Chairman Ramiz Raja has repeatedly mentioned this concept since he took over the office last year, but no details have been shared. Ramiz will formally present the proposal in Dubai next week along with the board CEO Faisal Hasnain.
The chances of acceptance of the proposal are unlikely as the ICC calendar is full of events. There are four men’s T20 World Cups between 2023-2031 and the domestic T20 leagues most Full Members are now running, which means that space in the calendar is non-existent – unless some of the bilateral commitments are sacrificed.
