In a historic moment for Pakistan cricket, four former chairmen of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) — Zaka Ashraf, Najam Sethi, Ramiz Raja, and Mohsin Naqvi — gathered together in Lahore for a special occasion, reports Cricbuzz.
The sight of these leaders, who have been part of PCB’s often fragmented leadership, united under one roof was nothing short of remarkable. “All of us under one roof, kamal hogaya (incredible!),” Sethi quipped during his television show Sethi Sey Sawal, reflecting on the surprise of the reunion.
The gathering marked a rare and unexpected moment in PCB history. The former chairmen have often been known for their rivalries and attempts to undo each other’s policies. However, ahead of the upcoming Champions Trophy, there seems to be a conscious effort to present a united front. “I don’t want any controversy before the Champions Trophy,” Raja remarked, carefully choosing his words.
Sethi, recalling their tumultuous history, joked, “I pushed Zaka out, he pushed me out, then Ramiz came, I pushed Ramiz out then Zaka pushed me out.” Yet, he expressed his admiration for the gathering, noting, “It was not easy to bring all of us under one roof. It was a big deal, the ice has melted. Naqvi is a powerful chairman. I never thought that so much would happen so fast.”
Naqvi, who has been instrumental in organizing the country for the Champions Trophy, expressed his honor at having his predecessors present. “I was deeply honoured to have three former PCB chairmen – Mr. Najam Sethi, Mr. Zaka Ashraf, and Mr. Ramiz Raja – graced the inauguration ceremony of the newly built Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore,” he said on social media, thanking them for their support.
The gathering was more than just symbolic; it also reflected the commitment of Pakistan’s cricket leadership to ensure the country’s readiness for the Champions Trophy, the first global event on Pakistani soil in 29 years.
Despite the challenges and tight deadlines, including renovations at key venues, Naqvi’s efforts have been central in overseeing the preparation. “The unwavering support from all relevant authorities has been invaluable,” Naqvi stated, underlining the importance of the event in enhancing Pakistan’s standing in international cricket.
Sethi, with his long experience leading PCB, acknowledged the enormity of the task, but also praised Naqvi’s swift and effective leadership. “The Karachi stadium is reset. Lahore is complete. History will soon say, after Shah Jahan it’s Mohsin Naqvi. If something good happens for the country, you appreciate it. You cannot grudge that it did not happen in your time.” Sethi added with admiration.
The next few weeks will determine how well Pakistan delivers on its promises for the Champions Trophy, and the successful reunion of these four chairmen stands as a powerful symbol of unity and collective effort as the country prepares for the prestigious event.
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Photo Credit: Instagram Photo of @icctrophytour
