Najam Sethi's comments come as cricketing world eagerly anticipates start of World Cup, with Pakistan aiming to build on its strong squad and perform well on the global stage
LAHORE: (UrduPoint/Pakistan Point News-Jan 23rd, 2026) Former Pakistan cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Najam Sethi strongly criticised International Cricket Council (ICC), saying that the ICC should not operate as an extension of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Najam Sethi emphasised that the ICC must remain independent and should not prioritize the interests of any single board, particularly the BCCI.
“If other cricket-playing nations stand together, the ICC will be compelled to make impartial decisions, as it is the International Cricket Council, not the Indian Cricket Council,” said former PCB Chairman Najam Sethi while talking to a reporter on Friday.
The comments from Najam Sethi come as the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the start of the World Cup, with Pakistan aiming to build on its strong squad and perform well on the global stage.
The former PCB chairman also addressed the ongoing issue regarding the series between Pakistan and India, stating that the hybrid model for their upcoming series was a proposal initiated by Pakistan. "Pakistan cannot travel to India due to political reasons, which is why the decision was made to host the matches in Dubai," he explained.
Najam Sethi also discussed the recent pullout of the Bangladesh Cricket Board from the series, expressing that it remains to be seen what decision the PCB will take next.
He extended his best wishes to the Pakistan team ahead of the 2023 Cricket World Cup, noting that the team faces significant challenges but remains capable of success.
On a positive note, Najm Sethi praised the return of key players Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi to the national squad, calling their inclusion crucial for the team's chances in the tournament.
“Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi should be part of every team. Their return is a significant boost for Pakistan's chances, and I am confident the team will reach the World Cup semi-finals,” he added.
