‘Mohsin Naqvi Influenced BCB Chief’: Former General Secretary Haque Drops Explosive Claim

Dhaka: A heated debate has erupted in Bangladesh cricket after the former general secretary of the Bangladesh Cricket Board, Syed Ashraful Haque, alleged that there was external influence in the decision making that led to the team's controversial decision to withdraw from the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. The recent statements of former General Secretary Haque have raised new questions on the instructions and diplomatic pressures taken outside the field. He alleged that an influential person in the Pakistan cricket structure appears to have played a role in the decision, which has heated up the debate on transparency of sports administration.

Who claimed what?

The former BCB general secretary clarified that the decision was taken suddenly and without thorough investigation. According to him, the top leadership of Bangladesh Cricket Board chose to keep the team out of the tournament citing security reasons, but the advice and influence of outsiders also played a role in this. He also said that when the crucial moment came, the board relied on a few selective suggestions rather than extensive consultation.

Why was Mohsin Naqvi's name associated?

The person mentioned most in the claim is Mohsin Naqvi. Haque indicated that personal meetings and discussions with Naqvi influenced the BCB leadership's decision. Such allegations have resurfaced old layers of regional cricket diplomacy, where personal relationships and board politics play a bigger role.

What was the impact on the top leaders of Bangladesh Board?

Direct questions have been raised on BCB President Aminul Islam and his team. Critics are asking whether the president and his advisory team conducted adequate security assessments or simply buckled under external pressure. The demand for investigation into the board's reputation and decision making process has intensified.

What did PCB and BCB say?

Till now Pakistan Cricket Board and Bangladesh Cricket Board have not issued any detailed official statement on this matter. Both the institutions are currently talking about peace and procedural legality, but answers to the questions are being sought internally.

What does this controversy indicate for cricket administration?

Experts say the close relationship between sport and diplomacy in South Asian cricket is not new. But when such allegations become public, they undermine trust and raise demands for institutional-level reform. Now the discussion on the need for administrative transparency and independent investigation will intensify.

What will be the next step?

The cricket world will now watch whether the BCB initiates any independent investigation or internal review and whether the allegations will be investigated impartially. To clear players and fans from confusion, the boards will have to give quick and clear answers so that the upcoming international calendar is not affected.

What impact will the decision have at the player level?

This controversy has also affected the players of Bangladesh team who wanted to prove themselves on the world stage. Staying out of tournaments not only takes away playing opportunities but also impacts young player development and the team's image.

Where are the eyes of the international cricket community now?

The international cricket community and ICC officials are closely monitoring this matter. If the investigation reveals any irregularities, it will be a matter of concern not only for the respective boards but also for the entire regional organization structure.