DUBAI: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi assumed charge as the president of the Asian Cricket Council on Thursday, succeeding Sri Lanka’s Shammi Silva.

Mohsin’s appointment comes “In accordance with the decision of the ACC”, the PCB said in a press release.

“Pakistan will lead the Council in its mission to promote and expand cricket across the Asian continent,” it added.

Whether Mohsin will be able to take decisive action in the PCB’s favour as the ACC president is yet to be seen, given the board’s weak position even in the Asian cricket bloc.

Since he took charge as the PCB chairman in February last year, Mohsin, who is also Pakistan’s interior minister, oversaw the holding of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan.

India’s matches of the tournament, however, were played in Dubai, despite prolonged efforts by Mohsin to ensure the whole of the tournament is held within Pakistan.

While a long-term hybrid model was agreed upon for the ICC tournaments, the decision was yet another example of India’s strong influence on the sport, an issue that may fall under Mohsin’s portfolio as the ACC president.

“I am deeply honoured to assume the presidency of the Asian Cricket Council,” he said in an ACC statement.

“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.

Meanwhile, the PCB press release said: “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.”

Published in Dawn, April 4th, 2025