Naqvi Rejects ICC Role Talk, Pushes for PSL Crowd Return

The chatter had been building for days. Social media was flooded. Names were being tossed around. But when it came down to it, Mohsin Naqvi kept it short and clear.

No, he is not becoming the next International Cricket Council chief.

Speaking after a Pakistan Super League fixture at the National Bank Stadium, the Pakistan Cricket Board chairman brushed aside the growing noise around Mohsin Naqvi ICC chairman speculation. The rumours had suggested he could replace Jay Shah while already holding roles in regional cricket administration.

Naqvi did not entertain it for long.

“There are already many responsibilities,” he said, hinting that adding another major post was not on his radar.

For someone already serving as president of the Asian Cricket Council, the idea of stepping into global leadership did not seem far-fetched. Yet, the response shut the door on that narrative, at least for now.

But the conversation did not stop there.

Focus shifts back to PSL crowds

The bigger concern, it seems, sits much closer to home. The ongoing debate around PSL 11 fan attendance has taken centre stage, and Naqvi appears determined to push it forward again.

He confirmed he would approach Shehbaz Sharif once more, urging reconsideration of restrictions that have kept fans out of stadiums.

When the decision was first announced, limiting matches to Karachi and Lahore without spectators, the atmosphere took a visible hit. Empty stands. Muted celebrations. Even the players felt it.

To be fair, the backdrop is complicated. The government’s austerity measures, tied to regional tensions and fuel concerns, forced tough calls. 

Still, franchise owners have not stayed quiet. Several have already reached out, stressing how vital crowds are to the league’s identity. The noise from them is growing louder with each passing match.

Naqvi seems to agree, at least in part. He made it clear the board will keep trying to bring supporters back into the stands, even if other aspects of the tournament remain unchanged. 

No changes to the schedule or venues are on the table. The focus remains clear, bringing supporters back into the stands as discussions around PSL 11 fan attendance gather pace again.

For now, though, nothing has shifted on the ground. Stadium gates remain closed, with fans still waiting for the green signal.