The performance of the Pakistan cricket team, particularly their losses to India in the Asia Cup, has led to a severe backlash against PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. Following the team’s defeats, including the final, Naqvi faces widespread criticism both internationally and within Pakistan. Calls for his removal are intensifying as the PCB head faces intense scrutiny.
The defeat against India in the Asia Cup final on September 28 has fueled the anger of Pakistani fans. While the team’s poor performance has placed the captain, Salman Agha, and many players under scrutiny, Mohsin Naqvi is also a prime target. Naqvi’s positions as chairman of the PCB and ACC, combined with his role in the Pakistani government, have also drawn the attention of rival political parties, who are criticizing the controversial chairman.
Imran Khan, the former Prime Minister and captain, has compared Mohsin Naqvi to General Asim Munir, the former chief of the Pakistan Army, and strongly criticized his actions. Khan stated that Naqvi is doing to Pakistani cricket what General Asim Munir did to Pakistan. Munir’s tenure saw the Pakistan army suffer a humiliating defeat during India’s Operation Sindoor. Several Pakistani army and air force bases were destroyed under Munir’s leadership, with the performance of the Pakistani cricket team mirroring this decline, resulting in consistent losses.
Leaders from Imran Khan’s PTI have accused Naqvi of destroying Pakistani cricket and are demanding his removal. PTI leader Moonis Elahi challenged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to take action against Mohsin Naqvi. The appointment of Naqvi was facilitated by Shehbaz Sharif, the patron of the PCB. The future will tell whether Naqvi can withstand the pressure and keep his position after the team’s disappointing performances.