"Time will tell how much I know about cricket" - Mohsin Naqvi hits back at journalist during press conference
Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi gave a befitting reply to a journalist for questioning his knowledge on cricket during a press conference on Monday. The PCB boss has promised that results will come from the new initiatives they have taken.
Naqv, who succeeded Zaka Ashraf as the PCB chairman, addressed issues pertaining Pakistan cricket but has seen a few lows in his brief tenure, with the men's team facing a humiliating exit from the 2024 T20 World Cup.
At the presser, Naqvi replied to the journalist's question, claiming that he's here to deliver, regardless of what people think. As quoted by cricketpakistan.pk, he said:
"Time will tell how much I know about cricket but we are here to deliver. I don't care about what people say but you will see the results. I am bringing in former stars to vet and improve the cricket system and end this culture of personal likes and dislikes."
Following the defeat to India in the T20 World Cup, where the Men in Green failed to chase down 120, the PCB chief underlined the need for a 'major surgery'. He started by sacking Wahab Riaz and Abdul Razzaq from the selection panel.
"Our current standings do not reflect the true potential and legacy of Pakistan cricket" - Mohsin Naqvi
Naqvi also announced the introduction of the Champions one-day cup, Champions T20 Cup and Champions First-class cup, saying that these three tournaments will bring together the most talented players. He said, as quoted by pcb.co.pk:
"Our current standings - sixth in Tests, fourth in ODIs and seventh in T20Is - do not reflect the true potential and legacy of Pakistan cricket. To restore our rightful place at the top of world cricket, we must innovate and strategically enhance, expand and strengthen our domestic structure.
"The introduction of the three Champions tournaments is a bold step in this direction. The Champions tournaments will bring together our most talented and consistent performers from domestic cricket with our centrally contracted players, creating an environment that mirrors the intensity of international cricket."
Pakistan's next series is a two-Test rubber against Bangladesh at home, beginning August 21.