Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman and Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Mohsin Naqvi called for unity among member nations during the ACC’s annual general meeting in Dhaka on Thursday. Emphasizing the need to keep politics separate from cricket, Naqvi said, “We need to put aside all our political differences and work just for cricket.” His remarks come at a crucial time, with the Asia Cup scheduled for September in India, though its hosting remains uncertain due to strained India-Pakistan relations following a military encounter in May.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) initially refused to attend the meeting in person, citing tensions with Bangladesh, but later joined virtually. Naqvi stressed the importance of collaboration, stating, “It’s about a team… We all need to support and strengthen each other.” He also highlighted the need to develop cricket in associate nations and strengthen the ACC as a whole. “Whoever wins means we all will win,” he added, urging members to work together for the sport’s growth in Asia.
Hybrid Model Likely as UAE Emerges as Potential Host
With India and Pakistan reluctant to play on each other’s soil—especially after the 2024 hybrid model—the UAE has emerged as a strong contender to host the upcoming Asia Cup. The tournament’s format remains undecided, but a neutral venue appears probable. Naqvi reiterated his commitment to making the ACC a stronger body, saying, “As the president of ACC, I can assure you that we will do whatever is required.”
The meeting, hosted by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), was followed by a dinner for ACC delegations, where Naqvi thanked BCB President Aminul Islam for his hospitality. “He worked day and night to make this happen,” Naqvi said, extending an invitation to Islam to visit Pakistan. The PCB chief’s diplomatic approach signals an effort to ease tensions and ensure the smooth conduct of the Asia Cup, even as geopolitical challenges persist.
Focus on Strengthening Asian Cricket
Naqvi emphasized the importance of competitive cricket in Asia, stating that stronger teams would lead to a more vibrant market for the sport. His vision includes expanding cricket’s reach in emerging nations and fostering a collaborative environment within the ACC. While the immediate focus remains on resolving the Asia Cup hosting dilemma, his broader goal is to elevate Asian cricket’s global standing. With the World Cup and other major events on the horizon, the ACC’s ability to navigate political hurdles will be crucial for the sport’s future in the region.