Mohsin Naqvi Assumes Asian Cricket Council's Presidency 

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, finalized during a virtual meeting of the ACC members on Thursday, April 3, marks a new chapter for the regional governing body, with Naqvi succeeding Shammi Silva, the President of Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC). Naqvi’s tenure, effective immediately, will span two years, positioning him at the forefront of cricket’s growth in Asia.

Naqvi, who has been steering the PCB since February 2024, steps into the role with a vision to elevate Asian cricket’s global stature. In a press release, he expressed his gratitude and outlined his ambitions.

"I am deeply honoured to assume the presidency of the Asian Cricket Council. 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 said as quoted.

"Together, we will unlock new opportunities, foster greater collaboration, and take Asian cricket to unprecedented heights. I also extend my sincere thanks to the outgoing ACC President for his leadership and contributions to the ACC during his tenure," he added.

The transition follows Silva’s brief stint as ACC president, which began in December 2024 after Jay Shah, the former ACC head, ascended to the chairmanship of the International Cricket Council (ICC). Silva, reflecting on his tenure, praised the collaborative efforts of member boards and expressed confidence in Naqvi’s leadership.

"It has been a privilege to serve as President of the Asian Cricket Council. The steadfast commitment of our member boards working together has been pivotal in elevating ACC’s stature across the region," Silva said.

"I extend my gratitude to my predecessor, Mr. Jay Shah, Chairman of the ICC, under whose leadership the ACC reached significant milestones including securing the highest-ever value for the ACC Asia Cup commercial rights, introducing a new pathway events structure, and paving the way for the continued development of cricket in Asia. As I step down, I have full confidence that under Mr. Naqvi’s capable leadership, the ACC will continue its remarkable journey and thrive," he added.

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Asia Cup 2025: Mohsin Naqvi's First Major Test

Naqvi’s initial challenge will be managing the Asia Cup 2025, slated for September. Although India was initially set to host, current indications point to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) emerging as the likely neutral venue for the tournament. This is a result of the ICC-mediated arrangement between India and Pakistan, ensuring their encounters in major tournaments occur on neutral ground. 

For the unversed, India had refused to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025. All of their matches took place in Dubai instead. The PCB knocked on ICC's doors, and a plan was then devised that Pakistan will also not travel to India in the near future.