In a landmark outcome for regional cricket governance, candidates supported by Pakistan won all three director positions on the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) board, defeating a rival panel backed by India at the council’s annual general meeting in Bangkok on Sunday.
The closely watched election marked the first time since the ACC’s formation that a Pakistan-aligned panel has captured every available board seat, according to sources familiar with the proceedings. The winning panel was led by ACC President Mohsin Naqvi and included representatives from Qatar, Singapore, and the Maldives.
Shift in Regional Cricket Dynamics
The result is being interpreted by insiders as a significant diplomatic and administrative victory for Naqvi, who also serves as chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board. It signals a notable shift in influence within the Asian cricket body, which has long been dominated by India’s financial and logistical weight.
India was represented at the meeting by Rajiv Shukla, vice-president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The Indian-backed panel contested the election but fell short as all three Pakistan-supported candidates secured the required votes.
Agenda Beyond the Elections
The annual general meeting also addressed several pressing matters concerning the future of Asian cricket. Key among them was the review of preparations for next year’s Asia Cup, scheduled to be hosted by Bangladesh. Officials proposed Sylhet, Mirpur, and Chattogram as the tournament’s venues.
Discussions also covered the ACC’s annual budget, with delegates reviewing financial allocations for upcoming events and development programs. Additionally, arrangements for the Women’s Asia Cup in Dubai were examined, including logistical planning for hosting the tournament.
Growing Pakistani Influence
The election outcome underscores Pakistan’s expanding role in shaping cricket administration across Asia. For years, the ACC’s leadership structure has reflected broader geopolitical tensions between the two South Asian cricketing giants. Sunday’s result suggests that smaller member boards may be increasingly willing to align with Pakistan on governance matters.
While the ACC has not released an official breakdown of the vote, sources described the contest as closely fought. The clean sweep is likely to embolden Pakistan’s push for greater parity in scheduling, revenue distribution, and tournament hosting rights.
The next major test for the newly constituted board will be the smooth delivery of the Asia Cup in Bangladesh and the Women’s Asia Cup in Dubai, both of which are expected to draw significant regional attention.
