Shahid Afridi remains an influential voice in Pakistan on cricketing matters, and this time, the former captain has weighed in on the growing debate around Mohsin Naqvi’s myriad responsibilities, suggesting that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief should consider stepping away from one of his high-profile roles for the greater good of the country.
Afridi, speaking after a recent meeting with Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir — where he had gone to offer condolences on the passing of the General’s mother — shared his thoughts candidly on Naqvi’s workload.
Currently, Naqvi holds two heavyweight positions: he serves not only as the PCB Chairman but also as Pakistan’s Federal Interior Minister. Afridi believes it’s a tough balancing act — one that could compromise the effectiveness of both roles.
In typical unabashed fashion, the former all-rounder used a simple yet sharp analogy to make his point clear.
“In my view, handling two important positions at the same time doesn’t allow him to give full attention to either,” Afridi said. “You should pick one — either focus on the Interior Ministry or on the PCB. If you dedicate yourself to a single responsibility, you’ll serve Pakistan much better.”
Shahid Afridi acknowledged Mohsin Naqvi’s passion for cricket and appreciated his commitment to the sport’s development in the country. However, he stressed that managing both roles — especially given their magnitude — was an uphill task.
“He has the passion and intent to improve cricket, no doubt,” Afridi added. “But cricket is a full-time job. And so is running the Interior Ministry. You can’t give your best in both at the same time.”
Mohsin Naqvi’s responsibilities have only increased in recent days. Just last week, he was appointed President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), becoming the first Pakistani to hold the position since 2008. Naqvi was elected unopposed, succeeding Sri Lanka Cricket President Shammi Silva. The appointment adds another major role to Naqvi’s portfolio, placing him at the forefront of Asian cricket administration.
Shahid Afridi is not the only voice questioning Mohsin Naqvi’s growing responsibilities just as Pakistan cricket is going through one of its worst spells on the cricketing field. Many pundits have raised concerns over his divided attention, and the voices are only going to get stronger as he assumes his position as the head of the ACC.
With Naqvi now balancing three high-profile roles — Interior Minister, PCB Chairman, and ACC President — the question is no longer about his intentions or passion, but about how effectively he can lead in so many different directions. And as Afridi put it bluntly: “Two big tasks cannot be done at the same time.”
Whether Shahid Afridi’s stance leads to action remains to be seen, but whatever the outcome, Pakistan cricket will bear the brunt of it in the coming years.
