NEW DELHI: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi has come under heavy criticism online after making claims about fuel shortages in India, as Pakistan itself faces a worsening energy crisis.
His remarks came at a time when PSL 2026 matches are being held without spectators due to fuel shortages and security concerns linked to tensions in the Middle East.
Fuel prices in Pakistan have increased sharply, more than 40%, along with rising electricity costs. These challenges have already impacted daily life and sporting events, including the Pakistan Super League.
Naqvi made the comments while speaking to the media about whether fans would be allowed to return to stadiums.
He defended the situation by pointing out the global conditions and said, “Today I spoke to the owners of the PSL teams and the PSL teams. Even Karachi (Kings) has requested it, so I will meet the Prime Minister and ask him again about what is possible, but we need to understand what is the scenario in the world, the oil crisis.”
He added: “We have been working for peace. We hope to have peace soon. The Prime Minister is also working for that. We have a different stand. There is an oil crisis in India and there are long queues at the petrol pumps in India.”
Pakistani public reacts to Mohsin Naqvi’s claims
His comments quickly sparked backlash, with many questioning their accuracy. In contrast, fuel prices in India have remained stable and there have been no widespread shortages.
Social media users on both sides of the border have responded harshly. One wrote: “Mohsin Naqvi cancels PSL crowds citing Pakistan’s fuel crisis, then claims India has long petrol queues while Pakistan doesn’t. PCB chief simply contradicted his own tournament policy at the same time. That’s not strategy, it’s confusion masquerading as leadership.”