Mohsin Naqvi under pressure after Pakistan’s loss to India; ‘upset’ Asim Munir reaches out to PM Shehbaz Sharif: Report

Top officials in Pakistan are reportedly dissatisfied with the national cricket team’s performance against India in their T20 World Cup 2026 Group A clash on Sunday at Colombo’s R Premadasa Stadium.

The heavy 61-run defeat has triggered strong reactions within the establishment, with reports suggesting that senior leadership views the loss as more than just a sporting setback.

According to a News18 report, Pakistan’s military leadership, including army chief Asim Munir, was displeased with the manner of the defeat. The assessment within official circles is said to be that the team appeared underprepared for a high-stakes encounter that had generated considerable expectations.

India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, delivered a commanding performance to secure a Super 8s berth, comfortably outplaying Pakistan despite pre-match discussions suggesting a closely contested fixture.

The News18 report further claimed that concerns over the team’s preparation and broader cricket administration issues were conveyed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif through official channels. The message reportedly pointed to alleged mismanagement by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), including team readiness and public messaging.

As a result, speculation has emerged regarding the future of PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, with insiders cited in the report suggesting that his position could come under review amid internal tensions.

Tensions over remarks

The report also highlighted friction stemming from Naqvi’s earlier public remarks referencing Munir during discussions about Pakistan’s participation in the India fixture. The comments, reportedly made without prior military clearance, are said to have caused discomfort within military circles.

In Pakistan’s power structure — where the military wields significant influence — the unauthorised invocation of the army chief’s name in a sporting or administrative controversy is viewed as sensitive.

Naqvi was present at the India–Pakistan match but reportedly left midway through Pakistan’s batting collapse. His tenure has faced criticism from former players as well, including ex-pacer Shoaib Akhtar, who publicly questioned his suitability for the role.

Akhtar, speaking on Indian television, criticised the PCB leadership, arguing that cricket administration required expertise and warning that poor governance could hurt Pakistan’s cricketing standards.