PCB and BCB to Formalize Sports Promotion Agreement

DHAKA: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, during his visit to Dhaka, extended an invitation to Bangladeshi umpires for training opportunities in Pakistan. Furthermore, both cricket boards have decided to solidify their commitment to sports development through a formal agreement.

Naqvi engaged in discussions with Bangladesh’s Minister for Youth and Sports, Asif Mahmud, in Dhaka. Their discussion centered on collaborative efforts to boost sports, particularly cricket, alongside the implementation of umpire development initiatives.

The proposal to host Bangladeshi umpires for training in Pakistan was a key highlight. The discussions also encompassed strategies to enhance collaboration in women’s cricket advancement programs.

Both the PCB and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) have resolved to establish a formal agreement aimed at fostering sports development within their respective nations.

During the meeting, Naqvi emphasized the potential of sports activities to unlock avenues for youth development.

Notably, the PCB chairman is in Dhaka to preside over the Asian Cricket Council’s annual meeting. This meeting with Bangladesh’s Sports Minister occurred on the sidelines of the main event.

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) is being held in Bangladesh, with a significant number of member nations confirming their participation.

Out of the 25 ACC members, 24 confirmed attendance, surpassing the quorum of 13. This is being viewed as a diplomatic accomplishment for ACC President Naqvi.

Despite initial reservations from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), and Oman Cricket regarding the location, Naqvi’s determined efforts ensured the AGM proceeded as planned in Dhaka.

India is also participating in the meeting virtually, with BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla expected to attend online, signaling a shift from the board’s initial position.

The AGM will address critical topics, including the future of the ACC Men’s Asia Cup 2025, scheduled for September. However, the tournament’s execution faces uncertainty due to political tensions and internal dynamics within the ACC.

Reportedly, the BCCI is attempting to undermine the event, potentially resulting in losses exceeding PKR 1.25 billion for the PCB.

Prior to the meeting, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) hosted a formal dinner in honor of President Naqvi and the council members in attendance.

Naqvi engaged with board officials, exchanged mementos, and interacted with Pakistan’s national men’s cricket team, who are in Bangladesh for a three-match T20I series.

He was also seen in conversation with Pakistan’s white-ball head coach, Mike Hesson. This marks Bangladesh’s first time hosting the ACC AGM in several years.