The Asia Cup 2025 trophy remains under lock and key at the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) headquarters in Dubai, following India’s refusal to accept it from ACC Chairman and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi after the final. Sources confirmed that Naqvi has issued strict instructions that the trophy “should not be moved or handed over” without his direct approval.
Trophy withheld after post-match standoff
India defeated Pakistan in the Asia Cup final in Dubai on September 28, but the trophy presentation ceremony turned controversial when Indian players reportedly declined to receive the cup from Naqvi. The PCB chief, who also serves as Pakistan’s Interior Minister, walked away with the trophy after the snub.
The trophy was later placed at the ACC office in Dubai, where it remains locked in storage. “Naqvi has given clear instructions that only he will hand over the trophy in person to the Indian team or the BCCI, whenever that happens,” a source close to Naqvi told PTI.
Rising tensions amid political backdrop
The incident occurred amid escalating India-Pakistan tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack, which has further strained bilateral relations. Throughout the Asia Cup, players from both sides reportedly avoided handshakes and exchanged politically charged gestures during matches.
Naqvi’s own social media posts, perceived as political statements, added to the controversy. The episode has blurred the lines between sports and politics, casting a shadow over what was meant to be a celebration of Asian cricket.
BCCI’s strong response
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken strong objection to Naqvi’s conduct. Senior officials are reportedly preparing to raise the issue at the upcoming ICC meeting, with discussions expected on whether Naqvi breached protocol by withholding the trophy.
“It remains to be seen what the long-term ramifications will be for the PCB or Naqvi,” a senior source told PTI. “The BCCI believes he had no right to insist on presenting the trophy himself or to refuse to send it to the BCCI, who were the official hosts of the event.”
Speculation is growing that the Indian board could push for Naqvi’s censure or removal as an ICC Director, citing a breach of conduct and misuse of authority.
Naqvi’s stance
Naqvi, however, has maintained that the trophy “belongs to the champions” and that India is welcome to collect it from the ACC office in Dubai whenever they wish. In a post-match remark, he stated, “The Indian team can receive the Asia Cup from me personally whenever they are ready to accept it.”
Conclusion
The incident underscores the deepening political undertones surrounding cricketing ties between India and Pakistan. With the trophy still locked away and both boards standing firm, the standoff reflects the widening rift in subcontinental cricket diplomacy — one that may soon draw ICC intervention.