ICC surprised by Pakistan’s confidence

The PCB remains calm, asserting that the ICC will ensure India’s participation

KARACHI:

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has expressed surprise at Pakistan’s unwavering confidence regarding the upcoming Champions Trophy, set to be held from February 19 to March 9 next year.

Despite mounting concerns over India’s participation, no alternative plans have been made.

Pakistan, which has received the hosting rights for an ICC event after many years, is facing resistance from India. The Indian team has already raised concerns about participating, similar to the previous Asia Cup scenario where a hybrid model was discussed.

However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) remains calm, asserting that the ICC will ensure India’s participation.

The ICC source, however, is not convinced that the Indian government will permit the team to travel to Pakistan. To address potential issues, a supplementary budget has been allocated to hold some matches of the Champions Trophy in another country if necessary.

Sources indicate that the ICC is surprised that, with only six months remaining, the PCB has not developed a contingency plan. No discussions have taken place with potential alternative hosts such as the UAE or Sri Lanka.

This lack of preparation could lead to significant challenges if problems arise at the last minute.

Meanwhile, the PCB has consistently maintained that the entire event will be held in Pakistan. They question India’s reluctance, stating that if other teams are willing to participate, there should be no issue.

The PCB’s firm stance complicates the possibility of adopting a hybrid model, and an official refusal from India could lead to a crisis situation for the ICC.

New ACC president

The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) is set to see a new leader at its helm, with Mohsin Naqvi, the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), poised to assume the presidency.

According to a media report, Naqvi’s term will begin in January 2025 and span two years, marking a significant moment for Pakistan’s influence in regional cricket administration.

The president of the ACC is appointed based on a rotation policy among member countries. Currently, the president of the ACC is Jay Shah, the secretary of the Indian board, who was granted a one-year extension to his term this January.

This extension ensures continuity in leadership and allows for a smooth transition when Naqvi takes over in 2025.

In addition to his role as PCB Chairman, Naqvi also serves as Pakistan’s Interior Minister. With his upcoming presidency at the ACC, he will be managing three significant portfolios, reflecting his extensive experience and leadership capabilities.

The official announcement confirming Naqvi’s presidency is anticipated to be made in the next ACC meeting, scheduled for October-November.

New role for Waqar

Former Pakistan pacer Waqar Younis is expected to be given a key role in the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

According to a media report, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi plans to delegate cricket-related responsibilities to Waqar Younis.

The PCB chairman has the authority to assign his duties as he sees fit, and sources indicate that Waqar will manage the board’s cricket activities with Naqvi’s approval.

Naqvi will continue to oversee the PCB’s administrative functions, while Waqar will handle all cricket-related decisions. This includes matters concerning international and domestic cricket, the selection committee, and the issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for players.

An official announcement regarding these changes is expected soon.

Additionally, Naqvi mentioned that the interior ministry is concerned about the amount of time he spends on PCB duties.