Hours before the Pakistani government made an unexpected reversal on its decision to boycott the India match in the T20 World Cup, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi alluded to the influence of Army Chief Asim Munir, potentially as a veiled message to India and the International Cricket Council (ICC). The situation unfolded amidst reported threats from the ICC regarding Pakistan's continued boycott of matches against India.

Naqvi's comments came during a press conference concerning the Pakistan Super League (PSL). When questioned about potential ICC sanctions against Pakistan for refusing to play India, Naqvi responded by invoking the name of Field Marshal Asim Munir. He stated that neither he, nor the Pakistani government, were intimidated by threats from India or the ICC. He then added, "As for Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, you already know him, he never gets afraid".

This reference is particularly significant given Asim Munir's status as a highly influential military figure in Pakistan. He was promoted to Field Marshal in May 2025, the highest military rank in the country, following escalating border tensions with India during Operation Sindoor. This promotion was only the second of its kind, with Ayub Khan being the first.

Naqvi's statement can be interpreted in several ways. It could be a show of defiance against perceived pressure from India and the ICC. It might also be a signal that Pakistan's decisions are influenced by its military establishment, particularly in matters concerning relations with India. Some view Naqvi's statement as an attempt to inject a political and civil-military dimension into the cricket dispute.

The ICC had engaged with PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi, with a two-member delegation meeting him at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium on Sunday.

The government's subsequent U-turn, allowing the Pakistan team to play against India in the T20 World Cup on February 15, followed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's conversation with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. The announcement was made via the government's official X account, stating that the decision was taken "in view of the outcomes achieved in multilateral discussions, as well as the request of friendly countries". The government further stated the decision aimed to protect the spirit of cricket and support the continuity of the sport across all participating nations.

The ICC released a statement reaffirming its commitment, along with the PCB, to the smooth conduct of the ongoing Men's T20 World Cup. The ICC also acknowledged its recent engagement with the PCB chief.

Mohsin Naqvi also dismissed claims that Pakistan had acted under pressure from India or the ICC. Furthermore, during a meeting between the ICC delegation, PCB, and Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), the latter two presented demands to the ICC.