Naqvi spotted in animated chat with Hesson as press conference cancelled again
The build-up to Pakistan’s Super Four showdown against India has taken a dramatic turn after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) opted to cancel the customary pre-match press conference in Dubai. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who also heads the Asian Cricket Council, was present at the ICC Academy during the Men in Green’s training session on Saturday — and his brief remarks have only deepened the mystery.
Naqvi was seen holding a lengthy and animated discussion with Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson. While the subject of the conversation remains unknown, reporters quickly turned their attention to the team’s decision to skip media duties ahead of the high-profile clash. When asked about the cancellation, Naqvi simply said, “We’ll talk soon,” hinting that an official statement could be on the horizon.
Training goes ahead, press duties scrapped
Pakistan were scheduled to address the media at 6 pm local time before beginning their three-hour training block at the ICC Academy. While the practice session went ahead as planned, the press briefing was abruptly pulled. This marks the second time in succession that Pakistan have abandoned pre-match media responsibilities, having also cancelled a press conference before their must-win game against the UAE earlier this week.
Handshake controversy still casting a shadow
The latest move comes amid ongoing tensions with match referee Andy Pycroft, who was at the center of the “handshake row” when India and Pakistan met in the group stage on September 14. Reports suggest Pycroft instructed both captains — Salman Agha and Suryakumar Yadav — to avoid shaking hands at the toss, a directive that did not sit well with the PCB.
Despite Pakistan’s objection and their formal request for Pycroft’s removal, the ICC has appointed him again as the referee for Sunday’s blockbuster against India. He also oversaw Pakistan’s group-stage fixture against the UAE, adding further intrigue to the situation.
What it means for Pakistan
By skipping consecutive press conferences, Pakistan risk fueling speculation about dressing room unease and administrative disagreements. For fans and media alike, Naqvi’s brief response has left more questions than answers at a time when the team needs clarity and focus ahead of their biggest test in the Asia Cup Super Fours.