Pakistan cricket faces an unprecedented crisis. Legend Shahid Afridi has sensationally called for PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s resignation. This explosive demand follows a series of on-field failures and a controversial trophy incident. The future of Pakistan cricket hangs in the balance, igniting national debate. “He doesn’t know anything about cricket,” Afridi publicly declared about Naqvi, amplifying concerns.
Key Takeaways
- Shahid Afridi demands PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s immediate resignation.
- Naqvi holds three powerful roles: PCB Chairman, Interior Minister, and ACC President.
- Pakistan suffered a historic early exit from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.
- A controversial Asia Cup 2025 trophy standoff involved Indian players refusing Naqvi.
- Afridi cites Naqvi’s alleged incompetence and reliance on unqualified advisors.
- The controversy taps into national pride, disappointment, and political intrigue.
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Afridi’s Bombshell: The Resignation Demand
Shahid Afridi, known for his fiery temperament, unleashed a stunning attack on Mohsin Naqvi. His public statements, carried by Geo News via YouTube, accuse Naqvi of gross incompetence. Afridi asserts Naqvi “doesn’t know anything about cricket” and surrounds himself with unqualified advisors. This bold challenge from a cricketing icon immediately sparked widespread debate.
Afridi’s criticism hits a sensitive nerve. Naqvi’s simultaneous holding of three high-profile positions raises serious questions. He is not only the PCB Chairman but also the powerful Interior Minister and ACC President. This unprecedented triple role, a first in Pakistan cricket, was initially reported by ESPNcricinfo via Twitter. Critics argue this creates an inherent conflict of interest.
A Triple Role Under Scrutiny
Naqvi assumed the PCB Chairman role on February 6, 2024. Shortly after, on March 11, 2024, he became the Interior Minister. His appointment as ACC President followed on April 3, 2025. This concentration of power is a major point of contention for Afridi and many fans. They fear cricket decisions are being influenced by political motives, not sporting merit.
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The chronic instability at the PCB further complicates matters. Mohsin Naqvi is the fourth PCB chairman in just four years. This revolving door leadership, highlighted by Dawn via LinkedIn, prevents long-term strategic planning. Each change brings new policies, often reversing previous ones, leaving the national team adrift.
On-Field Disasters Fuel the Fire
The timing of Afridi’s outburst is no coincidence. Pakistan cricket has recently endured a string of humiliating defeats. Most notably, the team suffered a historic early exit from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. For the first time ever, Pakistan failed to progress beyond the group stage, as confirmed by the ICC Official Website. This devastating performance left fans heartbroken and demanding answers.
The team’s poor form has intensified scrutiny on Naqvi’s leadership. Many believe a lack of clear vision and unstable management are direct contributors. The disappointment among Pakistani cricket fans is palpable. They yearn for stability and strong, cricket-centric governance.
Asia Cup Standoff: A Diplomatic Blunder
Adding to the crisis, a major diplomatic incident occurred on September 29, 2025. During the Asia Cup 2025, Indian players reportedly refused to accept the trophy from Mohsin Naqvi. The Hindu, via Facebook, reported this refusal was due to Naqvi’s perceived “anti-India stance.” This dramatic moment unfolded before a global audience.
The images of the trophy standoff were widely circulated, deepening the rift. The atmosphere in the stadium was tense, with spectators sensing the underlying political friction. This incident not only embarrassed the PCB but also escalated the intense India-Pakistan rivalry. It turned a sporting event into a geopolitical spectacle, further damaging Pakistan cricket’s international image.
Social Media Eruptions: #Afridi vs #PCB
The controversy has exploded across social media platforms. Hashtags like #Afridi and #PCB are relentlessly trending on Twitter and Facebook. Fans are passionately debating Naqvi’s suitability for the role. Social velocity is incredibly high, with millions engaging in discussions.
The online outrage reflects a deep-seated frustration. Many users are sharing images of the trophy standoff and Afridi’s powerful statements. Comments range from fervent support for Afridi to strong condemnations of Naqvi’s multiple roles. The India-Pakistan rivalry adds an emotional charge, turning every post into a high-stakes assertion of national pride or disappointment. This online maelstrom ensures the story remains at the forefront of global cricket discussions.
Expert Insight: Unpacking the Crisis
A Neutral Look at Pakistan Cricket’s Tumult
Analysis reveals a complex web of challenges facing Pakistan cricket. Experts note that the frequent changes in PCB leadership, including Mohsin Naqvi being the fourth chairman in four years, create an environment hostile to progress. This instability prevents the development and execution of long-term strategies. According to verified sources, this lack of continuity directly impacts team performance and player morale.
The dual roles of PCB Chairman and Interior Minister inherently raise questions of governance. Critics argue that such a powerful political figure managing cricket affairs can lead to biased decisions. An international sports analyst, speaking on ESPN, suggested that “while political ties can bring resources, they often blur the lines of accountability.” This situation is particularly acute given Pakistan’s recent on-field struggles, where a clear, uncompromised focus on cricket development is paramount. The Asia Cup incident further complicated international relations, underscoring the delicate balance required in such high-profile positions.
The Road Ahead for Pakistan Cricket
The path forward for Pakistan cricket is fraught with challenges. The immediate future demands clarity on Mohsin Naqvi’s position and the PCB’s direction. Fans and former players alike are calling for radical reforms. A strong, independent PCB, focused solely on cricket, seems to be the collective demand.
This crisis is a test of resilience for the nation’s beloved sport. The outpouring of passion, both online and offline, highlights cricket’s importance in Pakistan. Whether Naqvi resigns or a compromise is reached, the PCB must address the fundamental issues. Rebuilding trust and stability is crucial for Pakistan to reclaim its glory on the international stage.