Loud Thinking

Mr. Mohsin Naqvi,

Pakistan has just earned immense prestige and respect through the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA) with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, a landmark achievement that has uplifted our nation’s image globally. This historic pact, a blessing from Allah (SWT), entrusts Pakistan with the sacred responsibility of defending the Holy Cities of Makkah and Madina. With this honour, our duty has multiplied: every decision and action must now safeguard not only Pakistan’s dignity but also the respect of our esteemed partner country. As a leading regional power, our standing in the comity of nations is now firmly bound with this trust.

In painful contrast, however, our cricket team, under your chairmanship of the PCB, is repeatedly damaging that very image, particularly through its dismal and unending streak of defeats against a specific opponent. This decline is not due to the superiority of others, but the result of repeated missteps and the PCB’s reluctance to make timely and bold corrective changes. We fully acknowledge your contributions, commitment, and hard work as Chairman PCB in revamping the cricket stadiums. However, under all circumstances the buck stops at the top, and honourable leaders are those who accept responsibility with dignity.

This situation on the international stage undermines the painstaking efforts of our hardworking Prime Minister, Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif, and our courageous and visionary COAS, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. Even more gravely, it diminishes the legacy of our martyrs, whose supreme sacrifices keep our flag flying with pride. Their sacred blood demands that every institution of Pakistan safeguard our national honour with all the resources at its disposal.

Sir, true leadership also means recognizing one’s limitations. If cricket administration is not your calling, then the most honourable course is to step aside and allow capable hands to restore our team’s performance and protect our nation’s image. We urge you to take this decision before the upcoming/remaining Asia Cup matches, as further damage to Pakistan’s dignity would be unbearable.

Pakistan has given us everything. In return, we owe it responsible action and protection of its honour. For the sake of our sacred homeland, its respected leadership, our partner nation, and above all our martyrs, we appeal to you to have mercy on our national image and make the right decision now. If need arises, we as a proud Pakistani must sacrifice without giving a second thought all our belongings including our ego at the altar for the sake of the image, reputation and dignity of our motherland.

In conclusion, the prayers of 240 million Pakistanis are with those who uphold our nation’s dignity. Do not let the sacrifices of our leaders, soldiers, and people go in vain. History remembers those who protect their country’s honour at defining moments, this is one such moment for you.

With best wishes,

Syed Nayyar Uddin Ahmad

Lahore.

+92 321 9402157

nayyarahmad51@gmail.com

The writer is a senior corporate leader and strategic analyst. His thought-provoking visionary insights have reshaped global discourse, capturing the attention of world leaders. His writings have not only resonated with heads of state and governments but have also influenced the foreign policies of the United States and other major powers.