Mohsin Naqvi Appointed President of Asian Cricket Council: A New Era Begins
Pakistan’s Interior Minister, Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), and Senator, Mohsin Naqvi, has achieved yet another significant milestone. The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has officially announced his appointment as its President for a two-year term. The decision was made during a recent virtual meeting of the ACC Executive Committee, signaling the beginning of a new chapter in the future of Asian cricket. This prestigious role not only highlights Naqvi’s personal accomplishments but also marks a proud moment for Pakistan as it assumes leadership of one of the most influential cricketing bodies in Asia.
A Brief Overview of the Asian Cricket Council
Founded in 1983, the Asian Cricket Council was established with the aim of promoting cricket across Asia and strengthening ties between the cricket-playing nations of the region. Today, the ACC comprises around 30 member countries, including major cricketing nations like Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, along with emerging teams from Nepal, Malaysia, and the UAE. The ACC is particularly known for organizing the Asia Cup, one of the region’s most prestigious cricket tournaments.
Mohsin Naqvi’s Appointment: A Strategic Move
Mohsin Naqvi’s appointment as ACC President is being seen as a pivotal development for Asian cricket. Currently holding multiple key positions in Pakistan — including Federal Interior Minister, PCB Chairman, and Senator — Naqvi has earned a reputation for his leadership skills and administrative competence. These qualities likely influenced the ACC’s decision to entrust him with the presidency for the next two years.
He succeeds Jay Shah, Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), whose tenure was set to conclude in October or November this year. As ACC President, Naqvi is expected to bring fresh energy and strategic vision to the organization, working to elevate Asian cricket to new heights.
In his initial statement after taking office, Naqvi said,
“It is a great honor for me to assume the presidency of the Asian Cricket Council. Asia is the heart of global cricket, and I am committed to working with all member countries to further the growth of the sport.”
He emphasized his goal to make the ACC more organized, dynamic, and forward-looking.
His First Major Challenge: Asia Cup 2025
Naqvi’s first major test as ACC President will come in September–October 2025, when India is scheduled to host the Asia Cup. This tournament is considered one of the flagship events of Asian cricket, with participation from powerhouses like Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan.
In recent years, the Asia Cup has seen its share of controversies, particularly due to political tensions between Pakistan and India. The 2023 Asia Cup was held under a hybrid model, with matches played in both Pakistan and Sri Lanka, as India refused to tour Pakistan.
With the 2025 edition set to take place in India, Naqvi faces the critical challenge of ensuring a smooth and successful tournament while fostering cooperation among all member nations. The possibility of reviving cricketing ties between Pakistan and India may also be part of his broader agenda, as fans from both countries have long awaited a bilateral series.
New Opportunities for Asian Cricket
Under Mohsin Naqvi’s leadership, the ACC has an opportunity to tap into emerging markets and further develop the sport across the continent. Cricket is rapidly gaining popularity in countries like Nepal, Oman, and Qatar, and Naqvi may focus on strengthening cricket infrastructure in these regions and helping them gain greater exposure on the international stage.
In addition to marquee events like the Asia Cup, he could also prioritize the development of Under-19 and Women’s cricket, ensuring that the ACC’s growth is inclusive and future-oriented.
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