(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Najam Sethi Reveals How He Helped Save Pakistan Cricket During Asia Cup 2025 Dispute
September 19, 2025
Former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Najam Sethi has revealed details of the tense discussions that nearly led to Pakistan’s withdrawal from the Asia Cup 2025. He claimed that his intervention at a crucial time helped protect Pakistan cricket from serious financial and reputational setbacks.
PCB’s Boycott Consideration
Speaking on a private news channel, Sethi said that current PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi was firm on withdrawing from the tournament in protest against controversial refereeing decisions and the widely discussed handshake incident involving ICC match referee Andy Pycroft.
“This was a crisis that could have cost Pakistan dearly,” Sethi explained. “The board was ready to boycott if the ICC did not apologise or investigate. But I have always believed we should fight for our rights instead of walking away.”
Behind-the-Scenes Meetings
Sethi revealed that he attended a key meeting with Mohsin Naqvi to ensure Pakistan’s interests were safeguarded. “I didn’t go there to support any individual, I went to support Pakistan cricket,” he said.
He stressed that quitting the tournament would have backfired. “If Pakistan had abandoned the Asia Cup, the ICC could have taken action against us, our financial share of nearly 15–16 million dollars would have been lost, and even the PSL might have faced consequences.”
Outcome of the Crisis
During the crisis talks, both Najam Sethi and Ramiz Raja were invited to assist in resolving the matter. After extensive discussions, Pakistan decided to continue in the tournament — a decision that allowed the team to progress to the Super Four stage.
“I think we took the logical step, and Pakistan is still in the tournament,” Sethi concluded.
ICC’s Response
Following the incident, the PCB received an apology from the match referee along with assurances from the ICC that a formal inquiry would be conducted.
As Pakistan prepares for another highly anticipated clash against India, cricket fans and officials alike hope that such controversies do not overshadow the tournament again.
