PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi appointed ACC President

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi has been elected as the new chairman of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), succeeding Shammi Silva, the head of Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC). Naqvi’s appointment was confirmed during the ACC’s annual general meeting on April 3, and he will serve a two-year term.

"In accordance with the decision of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), Pakistan has officially taken over the presidency from Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC). Effective immediately, Pakistan will lead the Council in its mission to promote and expand cricket across the Asian continent. With Pakistan at the helm, the ACC is poised to further strengthen and expand cricket's presence across Asia, fostering growth and unity within the sport," a media release stated.

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One of Naqvi’s biggest challenges as ACC chairman will be organising the Asia Cup 2025, scheduled for September. The tournament was initially given to India, but due to ongoing diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan, it will now be played at a neutral venue. This situation mirrors India’s decision earlier this year to play all their matches in Dubai instead of traveling to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy.

The choice of the Asia Cup’s host nation was discussed when the ACC sold its media rights a few months ago. With the responsibility now falling on Naqvi, he must decide which country will host the six-team tournament. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is currently the leading contender, given its past experience in hosting international cricket events, including previous editions of the Asia Cup. However, Sri Lanka is also in consideration as a potential host.

Naqvi’s leadership will be closely watched as he navigates the complexities of organising one of Asia’s premier cricket tournaments while ensuring the continued growth of the sport across the region.