What does the Asian cricket presidency mean for Pakistan?

At 5.30 pm on Monday, the Pakistan Cricket Board’s media department sent out a press release, announcing that Pakistan has now assumed presidency of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC).

The media release consisted of merely 67 words and did not even mention the fact that Mohsin Naqvi, the PCB chairman, is now the new ACC president.

This is the exact PCB media release:

“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.”

‘Unprecedented heights’

If the PCB release lacked any enthusiasm, the one issued by the ACC was full of it.

The 323-word document included quotes from Naqvi while promising “a new chapter of leadership for Asian cricket”.

“Mr. Mohsin Naqvi has assumed charge as the new President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). Naqvi, who has served as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman since February 2024 will assume this prestigious role on 3rd April, 2025. His appointment ushers in a new chapter of leadership for Asian cricket,” the ACC stated.

Naqvi, meanwhile, commented that he would work with all (ACC) member countries to take Asian cricket to “unprecedented heights”.

“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. 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,” Naqvi was quoted as saying in the ACC media release.

Meanwhile, the outgoing ACC president Shammi Silva, President of Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), was all praise for the role played by his predecessor – India’s Jay Shah.

“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.”

BCCI's Rajeev Shukla sits with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi during the second semi final of ICC Champions Trophy in Lahore PCB

The ACC media release concluded by stressing that Naqvi “brings a visionary approach focused on unity, innovation, and strategic growth, reinforcing Asia’s position as the epicenter of world cricket. Under his leadership, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) looks forward to a dynamic and collaborative future, with an enhanced commitment to development programs, youth engagement, and elevating the global prominence of Asian cricket.”

A ceremonial position?

It all sounds good.

But what does the ACC presidency actually mean for Pakistan?

Unfortunately, it’s a largely ceremonial position.

Just like the International Cricket Council (ICC), the ACC, too, is under the influence of India, which is undoubtedly the financial engine of world cricket.

However, there is some room for Naqvi considering that two of the other key members of ACC – Sri Lanka and Bangladesh – could side with Pakistan on key issues like this year’s Asia Cup.

The 2025 Asia Cup to be played on the T20 format is to be hosted by India. However, following a reciprocal arrangement ahead of this year’s ICC Champions Trophy, it is understood that Pakistan will not send its team to India for the Asia Cup. That’s why it is expected that India might host the eight-nation event on a neutral venue, mostly likely in the UAE.

The Asia Cup issue will soon come up for discussion and in all likelihood, India will try to enforce its own will when a final decision is taken.

While countries like Afghanistan and Nepal will follow whatever the Indian cricket board (BCCI) decides, there is some hope that nations like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka could show some support for Pakistan.

Pakistan has long enjoyed great relations with Sri Lanka while political changes in Bangladesh mean that it, too, might support the PCB.

The onus is now on PCB and Naqvi to use the ACC presidency to their advantage. But considering the enormous clout of India in international cricket, it won’t be easy.