Sri Lanka Cricket honours PCB chief for ‘contributions toward promotion of sport’

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) hosted a special ceremony to honour Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, paying tribute to his significant contributions toward the promotion of the sport, the PCB said in a statement on Sunday.

During the event, SLC President Shammi Silva and other high-ranking officials held a meeting with the PCB Chairman. The gathering included Sri Lankan Minister for Sports Sunil Sunavi, Secretary of Defence Sampath Thuyacontha, SLC CEO Ashley de Silva, and Sujeewa Godaliyadda. The Pakistani delegation featured Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis Chaudhry Salik Hussain, PCB COO Sumair Ahmad, and PSL CEO Salman Naseer.

Both boards reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation to further develop the game. Expressing his gratitude for the warm hospitality, Naqvi remarked that cricket, as a “gentleman’s game,” remains a vital tool for fostering love and closer ties between nations.

PCB chief meets national squad

In a separate engagement in Colombo, PCB Chairman Naqvi met with the players and management of the Pakistan national cricket team.

The chairman lauded the team’s passion and resolve, offering his full support and best wishes for their upcoming performances. The meeting was attended by Captain Salman Agha, Head Coach Mike Hesson, and Team Manager Naveed Akram Cheema, alongside the complete coaching staff.

Senior PCB officials, including COO Sumair Ahmad, PSL CEO Salman Naseer, and Director Media Aamir Mir, were also present to encourage the squad.

The development comes ahead of Pakistan-India clash at the group stage of the T20 World Cup at the R. Premadasa Stadium on Sunday.

The 35,000-capacity stadium has been sold out, and hundreds of millions are expected to watch globally. Both sides have won their opening two matches, meaning Sunday’s winner will move to six points and secure qualification for the next round.

Historically, India have dominated the rivalry in T20 World Cup contests, holding a 7-1 advantage over Pakistan. They also defeated Pakistan three times in last year’s Asia Cup, including the final.