Mohsin Naqvi: A Controversial Figure in Pakistan Cricket
In the wake of the Asia Cup 2025 final, where India triumphed over Pakistan, Mohsin Naqvi, the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), has found himself at the center of a storm of controversy. While the cricketing world focused on the match itself, Naqvi’s actions off the field have overshadowed the sporting achievements, raising questions about his leadership and the future of cricket administration in Pakistan.
A Troubled Tenure
Naqvi’s recent reluctance to present the Asia Cup trophy and medals to the Indian team is just the latest in a series of missteps that have characterized his tenure. His administrative career has been marred by a string of controversies, each adding to the narrative of instability within Pakistan cricket.
July 2024: A Shaky Start
The troubles began in July 2024, following Pakistan’s dismal performance in the T20 World Cup. The team suffered a shocking defeat to the United States, leading to an early exit from the tournament. In the aftermath, Naqvi made headlines by dismissing selectors Wahab Riaz and Abdul Razzaq, a move that many viewed as a desperate attempt to shift blame and restore confidence in the PCB. This decision only fueled perceptions of chaos within the cricketing structure, as it became evident that Naqvi’s leadership was under scrutiny.
October 2024: A Selection Overhaul
Just three months later, the PCB underwent another significant reshuffle in its selection committee. Under Naqvi’s direction, new members, including Aleem Dar, Aaqib Javed, and Azhar Ali, were introduced to the panel. While the PCB framed this as an effort to create a more balanced decision-making process, critics argued that it reflected a reactive and disorganized approach to governance. The frequent changes in leadership raised concerns about the long-term vision for Pakistan cricket.
The Rise to ACC Chief
In April 2025, Naqvi ascended to the role of ACC Chief, a position that further complicated his already multifaceted responsibilities. This dual role as both PCB Chairman and ACC Chief sparked discussions about potential conflicts of interest. Critics pointed out that his involvement in both organizations could lead to biased decisions, particularly in matters involving India, a country with which Pakistan has a fraught cricketing relationship.
The Asia Cup Drama
The climax of Naqvi’s controversies came during the Asia Cup final on September 28, 2025. Following India’s victory, players from the Indian team reportedly refused to accept the trophy from Naqvi, leading to a delay in the presentation ceremony. This incident not only highlighted the tensions between the two cricketing nations but also ignited a diplomatic row, with Naqvi allegedly leaving the venue with the trophy in hand.
In a further twist, the PCB announced punitive measures against its players for their loss to India, suspending their No-Objection Certificates for participation in overseas T20 leagues. Framed as a move to instill discipline, many viewed this decision as a misguided attempt to shift focus from the defeat and reinforce a “Pakistan first” narrative.
October 2025: Tensions Continue
As the fallout from the Asia Cup continued, a heated ACC meeting in Dubai revealed more about Naqvi’s handling of the situation. Reports indicated that he avoided acknowledging India as the champions during discussions, leading to accusations of deflection regarding the rightful claims to the trophy and medals. Some sources suggested that while he may have agreed to hand over the medals, he attached conditions that were unlikely to be met, further complicating an already tense situation.
Historical Context
Naqvi’s controversies are not isolated incidents but part of a broader pattern in Pakistan cricket administration. Historically, the PCB has faced challenges related to governance, transparency, and accountability. The frequent changes in leadership and policy have often left players and fans alike questioning the direction of the sport in the country.
Comparatively, other cricketing nations have managed to maintain a more stable administrative structure. For instance, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has established a reputation for its robust governance and strategic planning, allowing it to navigate challenges more effectively. In contrast, Pakistan’s cricketing body has often been seen as reactive rather than proactive, leading to a cycle of instability.
Conclusion
Mohsin Naqvi’s tenure as PCB Chairman and ACC Chief has been marked by a series of controversies that have overshadowed the achievements of the Pakistani cricket team. His reluctance to present the Asia Cup trophy to India is emblematic of a broader issue within Pakistan cricket-an administration struggling to find its footing amid political and diplomatic tensions. As the cricketing world watches closely, the future of Pakistan cricket hangs in the balance, with calls for more stable and transparent governance growing louder. The question remains: can Naqvi and the PCB rise above the controversies and restore faith in Pakistan cricket?
