Mohsin Naqvi and Shahid Afridi (Source: AFP and @onecricket)
Former Pakistan player Shahid Afridi has launched a strong comment on Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, urging him to resign from one of his dual roles -either as PCB head or as Pakistan’s Interior Minister. It is important to mention that Afridi’s comments come in the wake of Pakistan’s humiliating performance at the Asia Cup 2025, which included a demoralising defeat against India three times in the prestigious tournament.
Afridi demands PCB Chief to pick between politics and cricket
Afridi, widely regarded as one of the most influential voices in Pakistan cricket, did not hold back in his criticism, stating that cricket administration cannot be treated as a 'side job' especially in a time of crisis. The former cricketer has cautioned Naqvi to treat the PCB role as a 'full-time commitment.'
"My request or advice to Naqvi Saheb is that these are two very important posts, and they are big jobs that need time," Afridi was quoted as saying by Telecom Asia Sport.
"PCB is totally different from the Interior Ministry, so it must be kept separate. It would be a big decision and should be taken as soon as possible. Pakistan cricket needs special attention and time Naqvi cannot rely totally on advisers. These advisers are taking him nowhere and he himself says that he doesn't know much about cricket. He needs to appoint good and competent advisers who know about the game," Afridi added.
This is not the first time Afridi has voiced concern over Naqvi's dual responsibilities. Following Pakistan’s underwhelming performance in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy earlier this year.
It is worth noting that Naqvi took over as PCB Chairman in early 2024 and has been criticised for several controversial decisions, including abrupt changes in the coaching setup. Pakistan will next play against South Africa in the two Test, three T20Is and three ODIs. The 1st Test match will begin from October 12 - 16 at the Lahore.
