PCB Chairman Faces Backlash During Royal Reception with King Charles III

Mohsin Naqvi, the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board, faced significant backlash during a royal reception with King Charles III in London. As the national team, led by Babar Azam, arrived for the event, protesters outside their hotel chanted hostile slogans directed at Naqvi. This incident comes amid intense scrutiny of the PCB following poor performances in recent matches, leading to a major squad overhaul. Additionally, one of the seven players sent home after the team's defeats refused to attend the royal meeting, further complicating the situation. With the series already lost, the team now seeks to restore some pride in their upcoming match.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 3, 2026, 16:19 IST

Hostile Reception for PCB Chairman

On September 3, Mohsin Naqvi, the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), encountered significant protests while accompanying the national cricket team to a prestigious reception with King Charles III in London.

The Pakistan team, led by captain Babar Azam, met the King at Clarence House, where the monarch welcomed the players as part of a customary royal reception for international cricket teams visiting England.

This royal engagement was overshadowed by the turmoil following Pakistan's recent Test defeat at Lord's, which resulted in a drastic mid-series overhaul of the squad, sending seven players and two coaches home.

Protests Erupt Against Naqvi

As Naqvi arrived with the team for the royal meeting, protesters gathered outside their hotel, chanting 'Shame on you' directed at him.

A viral video on social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), captured the moment when demonstrators confronted Naqvi and the team, leading to an uncomfortable scene as the players, including Babar Azam, appeared visibly shocked by the aggressive protests.

Criticism of PCB Leadership

The PCB has faced intense scrutiny due to poor performances, including consecutive losses at Headingley and Lord's, which prompted a significant reshuffle of the team and coaching staff.

Naqvi has been criticized for his dual role as PCB chairman and interior minister, with fans expressing dissatisfaction over perceived political favoritism overshadowing cricketing decisions.

Seven Players Decline Royal Invitation

In a further twist, one of the seven players sent home after the team's defeats reportedly refused to attend the royal reception.

Despite being ordered to participate, one player declined to show up in protest against the PCB, while two others were hesitant to attend.

The players affected included Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Ali Agha, Imam-ul-Haq, Saud Shakeel, Mir Hamza, Khurram Shahzad, and Mohammad Ali, who were all part of the squad facing criticism for their performances.

With the series already lost, the Babar Azam-led team now aims to salvage some pride in their upcoming match at Edgbaston.