The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has reportedly approved a significant expansion of its event calendar and will soon introduce two new tournaments aimed at broadening cricket’s reach across the continent.
According to sources, the decision was made following the resounding success of the Asia Cup held in the UAE earlier this year, which drew impressive viewership despite the controversy surrounding Pakistan and India.
The move was finalized during the ACC Board meeting in Doha, chaired by President Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Officials confirmed that the ACC’s new initiatives will include a “Legends of Asia” event and a separate league dedicated to associate member nations—both new tournaments are designed to enhance cricket’s footprint in emerging markets.
“We want to promote cricket in new and developing cricket countries across Asia,” said Mohsin Naqvi following the meeting. “The ACC will provide full support to nations looking to grow the sport.”
The expansion follows record-breaking viewership numbers for the 2025 Asia Cup, which exceeded expectations across both digital and broadcast platforms. Building on that momentum, the ACC aims to offer greater exposure to associate nations while giving fans more opportunities to engage with the game.
The first test of the ACC’s push for sustained interest will come during the upcoming Asia Cup Rising Stars. With Pakistan and India once again sharing the spotlight in the tournament’s opening fixture, anticipation is mounting—both on and off the field. Attention will be focused not only on the cricketing action but also on symbolic moments that often transcend the boundary ropes, including handshakes and the presentation ceremony, where Mohsin Naqvi is expected to award the trophy.
The Rising Stars Asia Cup promises more than just competitive cricket—it marks the beginning of a new chapter for Asian cricket under Mohsin Naqvi’s stewardship. With a vision rooted in unity, opportunity, and regional growth, the ACC’s latest initiatives reflect a strategic commitment to nurturing the sport’s future across diverse cricketing landscapes.