NEW DELHI: Mohsin Naqvi, at the center of controversy after walking off with the Asia Cup trophy and refusing to hand it over to the winning Indian team, has reportedly been asked to choose between two of his roles—Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) or Interior Minister. Critics feel he has struggled to manage both responsibilities effectively.According to reports, former all-rounder Shahid Afridi has urged Naqvi to relinquish one of his positions following the Asia Cup debacle on Sunday. To complicate matters, Naqvi also serves as President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC).Pakistan finished as runners-up in the regional tournament, but the team’s repeated losses to India in the Asia Cup have sparked criticism of both the side’s batting performance and the PCB’s leadership. Naqvi’s handling of the board is now under intense scrutiny, Telecom Asia Sport reported on Tuesday.“My request or advice to Naqvi Saheb is that you have two very important posts, and they are big jobs and need time,” Afridi said. “PCB is totally different from the Interior Ministry, so they must be kept separate.”Afridi added that a decision should be taken without delay. “It would be a big decision and should be taken as soon as possible. Pakistan cricket needs special attention and time,” he told telecomasia. He also criticised Naqvi’s advisers.
“Naqvi cannot rely totally on advisers. These advisers are taking him nowhere, and he himself admits he doesn’t know much about cricket,” Afridi said.Afridi stressed the need for competent cricket advisers. “He needs to appoint good and knowledgeable advisers who understand the game,” he said.The report noted that Afridi has been vocal about Naqvi holding dual posts, but his warnings have largely gone unheeded. Sources added that Afridi even suggested to the country’s army chief that Naqvi should step down from one position to focus properly on the other.
