KUALA LUMPUR – Mohammed Iqbal Ali Kassim Ali, who abruptly resigned as president of the Malaysian Cricket Association (MCA) citing an internal coup, has returned to the governing body.
In a statement to Scoop, Iqbal said he would continue to serve as president for the remainder of the current term, unless formally directed otherwise by the Sports Commissioner of Malaysia (PJS) or the International Cricket Council (ICC).
“I will continue serving in this capacity unless the PJS and ICC, upon the conclusion of their investigations or through formal intervention, determine otherwise,” he said.
Since his resignation, Iqbal claimed to have received overwhelming support, adding that many were unaware of shadow movements by a small faction within the association.
“Recent legal advice has confirmed that the requisition for an EGM to remove exco members was most likely ultra vires (without authority) and conducted in bad faith – under the cloud of misinformation and promises of future benefits.
“We have evidence indicating that the original requisition was not signed by at least one individual and that some senior members of state associations were unaware of it,” he said.
Iqbal alleged that several individuals nominated for leadership positions had direct knowledge of the plot, one even representing the alleged signatories.
“This is a serious issue and can only be resolved by the authorities.
“I can confirm that this information is with our legal advisors and has already been submitted to the PJS and the ICC’s Anti-Corruption Unit for immediate intervention.
“In addition, submissions will also be made to the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission,” he said.
He stressed that the investigations are ongoing and involve multiple agencies, making cooperation from those with knowledge of the situation crucial.
“There is currently an environment of fear, bullying and intimidation, perpetrated by those who orchestrated this attempt to usurp the legitimate election process.
“I do not want this to be remembered as a stolen election,” he said.
Iqbal has recommended postponing the upcoming biennial general meeting to allow investigations to proceed properly.
“This is the only way the MCA can maintain its integrity and avoid a lengthy court battle that could derail both the short- and long-term aspirations and goals for cricket in the nation.”
Under his leadership, Malaysia’s men’s and women’s national teams achieved their highest-ever international rankings – 24th in the world. He also oversaw the hosting of the ICC Under-19 Women’s World Cup earlier this year, which drew a global broadcast audience of over 750 million viewers.
Iqbal appointed Dutch coach Jon Van Bunge to lead the women’s team during the tournament. However, the home side struggled, losing all four group-stage matches and finishing bottom of the 16-team standings. – April 22, 2025