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In a significant development for Asian cricket, Mohsin Naqvi, the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), has been appointed as the new President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). The decision was made during a virtual session of the ACC’s executive committee, which confirmed Naqvi’s new role. This appointment, effective from April 3, 2025, marks a new chapter for the region’s cricket governance and leadership.
Naqvi, who took over as PCB Chairman in February 2024, now finds himself at the forefront of Asian cricket, a responsibility that is set to expand his influence within the global cricketing community. The move signals a fresh leadership direction as Naqvi aims to accelerate the growth of the game in Asia, fostering closer collaboration among member boards.
Naqvi’s Vision for Asian Cricket
On assuming his new role, Naqvi expressed his deep honor at being entrusted with the leadership of the ACC. “Asia remains the heartbeat of world cricket, and I am committed to working with all member boards to accelerate the game’s growth and global influence,” Naqvi stated in his first public comments as ACC President.
He further emphasized his commitment to fostering greater collaboration and unlocking new opportunities for the sport. Naqvi’s vision is to take Asian cricket to new heights, making it more influential in the global cricketing arena. He also extended his gratitude to the outgoing president, Shammi Silva, for his leadership and contributions to the ACC during his tenure.
Shammi Silva’s Legacy and the Transition
Naqvi succeeds Shammi Silva, the President of Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), who served as the ACC President before Naqvi. Reflecting on his tenure, Silva praised the ACC’s member boards for their commitment and unity in elevating the stature of the council across the region. “It has been a privilege to serve as President of the ACC. The steadfast commitment of our member boards has been pivotal in elevating ACC’s stature across the region,” Silva said.
As he handed over the reins to Naqvi, Silva expressed confidence that the ACC would continue to thrive under Naqvi’s capable leadership, marking a smooth transition of power within the regional cricket body.
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Naqvi’s Dual Role as PCB Chairman and Interior Minister
While his role as ACC President is a prestigious new responsibility, Naqvi will continue his leadership at the PCB, where he was appointed chairman in February 2024 for a three-year term. In addition to his role at the PCB, Naqvi also serves as Pakistan’s Interior Minister, further highlighting his significant position in both the political and sporting landscapes of Pakistan.
Naqvi’s influence on the governance of Pakistan cricket is poised to strengthen as he balances his roles at the national and regional levels. He has already made strategic decisions to divide his duties within the PCB. Former Pakistan cricket captain Waqar Younis has been appointed as Naqvi’s advisor on cricket affairs, with Younis overseeing matters related to international and domestic cricket, including the selection committee and players’ No Objection Certificates (NOCs).
The Power-Sharing Arrangement Within the PCB
Naqvi’s decision to delegate cricketing responsibilities to Younis reflects a significant power-sharing move. According to the PCB Constitution of 2014, the chairman has the authority to divide or share his powers with another official, a provision that Naqvi is utilizing to ensure that both administrative and cricketing matters are effectively handled.
This power-sharing structure is seen as a proactive step to streamline the functioning of the PCB, allowing Naqvi to focus on administrative matters while Younis takes charge of cricket-related affairs. This collaboration aims to ensure a more efficient and focused approach to managing Pakistan’s cricketing operations.
