Mohsin Naqvi's visit sparks debate as Pakistan reel from heavy India defeat

Pakistan’s crushing 61-run loss to India in the T20 World Cup 2026 at the R. Premadasa Stadium has triggered more than just cricketing concerns. It has opened up a debate over off-field interference and its possible impact on the team’s mindset before the high-stakes encounter.

In the build-up to the marquee clash, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi met the squad in the dressing room shortly before the toss. The timing of the visit has since come under scrutiny, with critics questioning whether such an interaction, ahead of a pressure-laden India fixture, may have unintentionally added to the players’ mental burden.

Addressing the issue after the match, head coach Mike Hesson dismissed suggestions that the chairman’s presence had a destabilising effect. He described the meeting as routine administrative support, insisting it did not create additional stress for the squad. According to Hesson, Naqvi’s visit was simply part of his responsibilities as a supporter of the team.

Despite the clarification, the controversy lingers- particularly because Pakistan’s participation in the tournament had received last-minute governmental clearance following earlier boycott concerns. Against that backdrop, the optics of a pre-match dressing-room visit have fuelled speculation.

Also Read: When India T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav urged teammates not to sledge Pakistan

On the field, Pakistan endured a bruising evening. Chasing 176, their innings unravelled almost immediately. Jasprit Bumrah struck twice in the second over to dismiss Saim Ayub and skipper Salman Ali Agha, reducing Pakistan to 13/3 and setting the tone for the collapse. The batting order never recovered, eventually folding for 114 - their third-lowest T20 total against India.

With India already sealing a Super Eight berth after three straight victories, Pakistan’s qualification hopes now hinge on a must-win clash against Namibia. The team must swiftly move past both on-field shortcomings and off-field distractions if they are to keep their campaign alive.