Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi didn’t sit through the entire India vs Pakistan match at the T20 World Cup in Colombo on Sunday. The Pakistan collapse chasing the target would have prompted him to leave the venue while the match was still in progress.
Pakistan were chasing 176 set by India at the R Premadasa Stadium, and according to the people present in the media and hospitality areas, the PCB chief exited the stadium during Pakistan’s innings with the match yet to be completed.
His absence was noticed by members of the media and officials seated in the VIP section. Media reports suggest that Naqvi left the ground while Pakistan were still batting.
Put in to bat first, India had posted 175 for 7 in 20 overs, a competitive total on that surface. During the run-chase, Pakistan never looked in control as India bowlers dominated by chipping away wickets at regular intervals. India sealed the lopsided contest after bowling Pakistan out for 114 in 18 overs to secure a 61-run victory.
Naqvi had already been in the spotlight before the tournament. He had raised concerns about Pakistan’s participation after Bangladesh’s exit from the 2026 T20 World Cup. The situation even led to tensions over Pakistan’s match against India, before the team eventually agreed to play.
However, there has been no official explanation from the PCB regarding Naqvi’s early departure from the stadium.
