Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), Mohsin Naqvi has announced that a decision regarding the future of the 2025 Asia Cup is expected soon. This announcement came following the annual general meeting of ACC held in Dhaka, Bangladesh where discussions were held on the promotion of cricket, hosting of the Asia Cup and other mutual matters.

Highlights of Meeting:

  • Final consultations on the venue and schedule of the Asia Cup are ongoing with an official announcement expected soon.
  • The 2025–26 tournament calendar was unanimously approved.
  • Mongolia, Uzbekistan and the Philippines were added as new member countries.
  • Cricket has been approved to be part of the 2026 Asian Games.

Full Participation in ACC Meeting

All 25 ACC member countries participated in the meeting, some attending online. India initially declined participation but later confirmed virtual attendance. The meeting reaffirmed the commitment to promoting cooperation in cricket among Asian nations.

Cricket Beyond Politics

Speaking at the meeting and later at a reception, Mohsin Naqvi emphasized that all member countries must rise above political differences and work collectively in the interest of cricket to ensure the growth of the sport in Asia.

Pakistan–Bangladesh Agree on Sports Cooperation

Mohsin Naqvi also met with Bangladesh Minister for Youth and Sports, Rural Development and Local Government, Asif Mahmood. The two sides agreed on initiatives for youth training, cricket umpiring, educational exchanges and joint sports programs.

Agreed Areas of Cooperation:

  • Bilateral collaboration in cricket and other sports
  • Training of Bangladeshi umpires in Pakistan
  • Exchange of educational and scholarship programs
  • Skill development and employment opportunities for youth

Bangladesh Shows Interest in NADRA System

Mohsin Naqvi briefed the Bangladeshi minister on digital identity system of Pakistan developed by NADRA which drew particular interest. A high-level Bangladeshi delegation is expected to visit Pakistan soon for further discussions.

Analysis:

This meeting was significant not only for the future of a major tournament like the Asia Cup but also for paving the way for enhanced cooperation in sports, education, and youth development between Pakistan and other Asian nations. The message of Mohsin Naqvi was clear: Cricket must rise above politics and Asian countries must unite for mutual progress through the sport.