Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi made a surprise appearance at the ICC headquarters in Dubai on Friday afternoon, ending days of speculation over his attendance at the ongoing ICC Board meetings.
Naqvi, who had skipped recent ICC gatherings including the annual conference in Singapore in July, was initially uncertain to attend this round of meetings. His presence gains significance as a key agenda item — the unresolved Asia Cup trophy issue — is being taken up for discussion.
The PCB chief has been under fire for allegedly withholding the Asia Cup trophy, which rightfully belongs to India, the tournament’s 2025 champions after defeating Pakistan in the final. Sources suggest that global cricket administrators have expressed discontent over the delay in officially handing over the trophy.
The BCCI, meanwhile, has taken a firm stance and is expected to raise the issue formally during the ICC Board deliberations. Officials familiar with the development said the Indian board considers the matter one of both protocol and principle, insisting that the championship title and trophy be formally acknowledged in India’s name.
According to reports, a resolution or official statement is likely later on Friday evening, as ICC members aim to bring closure to what has become an unusually contentious episode between the two cricketing boards.
