Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has explained his actions during the Asia Cup 2025 final, sparking an Asia Cup Trophy Controversy with the BCCI. India refused to accept the trophy from Naqvi, intensifying the Asia Cup Trophy Controversy. The BCCI demands the trophy and medals be returned immediately, escalating the Asia Cup Trophy Controversy further.
Mohsin Naqvi Explains Asia Cup Trophy Incident as BCCI Demands Return
A new Asia Cup Trophy Controversy has unfolded after the Asia Cup 2025 final, involving Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The controversy erupted when the Indian cricket team reportedly refused to accept the Asia Cup trophy from Naqvi during the post-match presentation. This refusal has triggered a heated exchange between Naqvi, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), and BCCI officials, drawing widespread attention from cricket fans and media across South Asia.
Naqvi, who was on the presentation dais prepared to hand over the trophy and winners’ medals to Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav and his team, said he was unaware of India’s decision beforehand. Speaking to the media, Naqvi expressed that he felt “like a cartoon” standing awkwardly on stage while waiting for the Indian team to collect the trophy. Following the incident, he reportedly took the trophy and medals back to his Dubai hotel room, further intensifying the Asia Cup Trophy Controversy.
The BCCI swiftly responded, emphasizing that the Asia Cup trophy is the property of the ACC and not any individual, including Naqvi. Senior BCCI officials, including Rajeev Shukla and Ashish Shelar, joined a virtual ACC meeting to demand that the trophy and winners’ medals be returned to India without delay. They suggested that the trophy be kept at the ACC’s Dubai office so it could be officially collected by the Indian team, ensuring that proper protocol was followed.
Despite the BCCI’s insistence, Naqvi remained firm in his stance. Sources revealed that he did not give a definitive answer to returning the trophy immediately and instead requested that the issue be discussed separately from the ACC’s Annual General Meeting (AGM). The AGM, which was primarily scheduled to elect a Vice-Chairman, had its agenda deferred due to this ongoing dispute, demonstrating the seriousness of the situation.
The Asia Cup Trophy Controversy has drawn criticism from many cricket experts, who argue that such incidents overshadow the spirit of the game. Others have defended Naqvi, citing a lack of communication and procedural lapses as contributing factors. The incident highlights the challenges faced when politics and administration intersect in international cricket, particularly between India and Pakistan, whose cricketing relations have historically been tense.
BCCI reiterated its position that the Asia Cup trophy and winners’ medals must be handed over to the rightful winners. Officials have also indicated that they may escalate the matter to the International Cricket Council (ICC) if the issue remains unresolved. This controversy has generated debate over leadership, accountability, and sportsmanship in cricket administration.
Former cricket and political figures have also voiced opinions, adding fuel to the discussion. Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan criticized Naqvi’s actions, while Indian fans and analysts demanded strict adherence to tournament protocols. The incident serves as a reminder that cricket administrators must balance authority with the integrity and fairness of the sport, especially in high-profile international tournaments.
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FAQ
Why did India refuse to accept the Asia Cup trophy from Mohsin Naqvi?
India declined due to Mohsin Naqvi’s past anti-India remarks and his dual role as PCB Chairman and ACC President.
How did Mohsin Naqvi react to India’s refusal?
Naqvi said he felt “like a cartoon” and took the trophy and medals back to his Dubai hotel room.
What is the BCCI’s position on the trophy?
BCCI demands the trophy and medals be returned immediately, stating they are ACC property, not Naqvi’s personal belongings
Has this controversy affected India-Pakistan cricket relations?
Yes, tensions have increased, showing the challenge of keeping politics separate from cricket.
What steps are being taken to resolve the issue?
ACC discussions continue, and BCCI may escalate the matter to the ICC to ensure the trophy reaches the rightful winners.
