Bangkok, August 23, 2026: Pakistan-backed candidates have secured all three available seats on the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) board, defeating an India-backed panel in a closely contested election held during the ACC Annual General Meeting in Bangkok, according to sources.
The election featured three director positions, with Pakistan- and India-backed panels competing for the seats.
The winning panel, backed by ACC President and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, comprised representatives from Qatar, Singapore and the Maldives. All three candidates emerged victorious after a close contest, while the India-backed panel failed to secure any of the available positions.
Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Vice President Rajeev Shukla represented India at the meeting.
The outcome marks the first time since the establishment of the ACC that a Pakistan-backed panel has secured all three available board seats. Sources described the result as a significant achievement for Naqvi and an indication of Pakistan’s growing influence within the continental cricket body.
The ACC meeting also reviewed preparations for next year’s Asia Cup in Bangladesh. Sylhet, Mirpur and Chattogram have been proposed as venues for the continental tournament.
Participants also discussed the ACC’s annual budget and reviewed preparations for the Women’s Asia Cup, which is scheduled to be held in Dubai.
India and Pakistan have been drawn in the same group for the Women’s T20 Asia Cup 2026, scheduled to take place from August 28 to September 13.
The eight-team tournament will feature two groups of four teams, with all 15 matches, including the September 13 final, scheduled to be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
The tournament will open on August 28 with Thailand facing Hong Kong, China.
