Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has confirmed that the Pakistan women’s cricket team will not travel to India for the upcoming ICC Women’s World Cup, urging the need for a neutral venue to be decided by the Indian cricket board.
Speaking to the media on Saturday, Naqvi emphasized that “when an agreement is made, then it will be honoured,” making it clear that unless the terms are settled, the Pakistani team will not cross borders. “India is the host. They have to decide where the matches will be played. The ball is in their court,” he added.
Naqvi stressed the importance of team unity in achieving success. “It is for every team—men or women—that they play as one unit. That’s how you get consistent results,” he said, reiterating the importance of cohesion in the national setup.
He also promised that the women’s cricket team would be rewarded for their recent performances, calling it “their right.”
Coaching and team changes
When asked about the appointment of former cricketer Aqib Javed as interim coach, Naqvi stated that a decision regarding the long-term coaching setup will be taken next week.
Commenting on journalist queries about wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan appearing disgruntled and stating he had “no authority,” Naqvi chose not to delve into internal matters, saying, “I will not comment on this.”
He also hinted that frequent minor changes on the women's team could bring it on the right path, adding that decisions regarding the national team would be made soon.
Unbeaten Pakistan storms through World Cup qualifiers
In a thrilling performance in Lahore, Pakistan defeated Bangladesh by 7 wickets, marking their fifth consecutive win and finishing the tournament unbeaten.
Chasing a target of 179, Pakistan comfortably reached the mark with 3 wickets down. Muneeba Ali led the batting with a composed 69, while Aaliya Riaz remained unbeaten on 52.
Bangladesh earlier posted 178 for 9 in 50 overs, with Sadia Iqbal shining with the ball, taking 3 wickets. Fatima Sana and Diana Baig chipped in with two wickets apiece.
