By: The Trek News Desk
Tensions between India and Pakistan have once again spilt over into cricket, this time over the Asia Cup 2025 trophy. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has issued a stern warning to Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chief Mohsin Naqvi, demanding that the trophy be handed over to Team India, the rightful champions. In a formal email, the BCCI made it clear: if the trophy is not returned, the matter will be escalated to the International Cricket Council (ICC).
India Refused the Trophy, Naqvi Cancelled Presentation
After a stunning win over Pakistan in the Asia Cup final, the Indian team refused to accept the trophy and medals from ACC chairman Mohsin Naqvi, a prominent Pakistani political figure. This silent protest led Naqvi to call off the official presentation ceremony altogether. He ordered ACC officials to take the trophy back, which is now being held at the ACC headquarters in Dubai.
Since then, Team India has not been officially awarded the trophy, a move that has sparked outrage in Indian cricketing circles.
BCCI’s Clear Stand: “The Trophy Is Ours”
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia told the media that the board is patiently awaiting a formal response from the ACC. Still, if none arrives, an official complaint will be lodged with the ICC.
“We consciously chose not to accept the trophy from the ACC chairman due to his political affiliations. But that doesn’t give him the authority to withhold it,” said Saikia.
“This is completely against the spirit of the game and highly unacceptable.”
ACC’s Shocking Condition: “Indian Captain Must Collect Trophy from Dubai”
Amid mounting pressure, ACC chairman Mohsin Naqvi has reportedly stood firm, refusing to return the trophy. He has insisted that India’s captain, Suryakumar Yadav, must travel to Dubai in person to collect it.
Although Naqvi is said to have apologised to some ACC board members privately, he remains unwilling to hand over the silverware. The BCCI has rejected this demand, stating clearly that the trophy should have been awarded during the post-match ceremony itself, not subjected to any conditions afterwards.
ACC Meeting Fallout: BCCI Slams Naqvi’s Conduct
During an ACC board meeting held on September 30, BCCI officially condemned Naqvi’s actions.
Rajeev Shukla, BCCI vice-president, emphasised that the Asia Cup trophy is not the ACC’s property and must be immediately and formally awarded to the Indian team.
“You cannot change the rules of sportsmanship after the final whistle. India won on the field; they must be honoured accordingly,” said Shukla.
From Cricket Field to Diplomatic Tensions
What began as a post-match protocol dispute has now turned into a political flashpoint. The episode has once again highlighted how cricket between India and Pakistan often reflects larger geopolitical strains. If the issue remains unresolved, it could be escalated to the ICC’s dispute resolution mechanism, possibly impacting future ACC events.
What Comes Next?
- The BCCI awaits a formal reply from the ACC.
- If no response comes, ICC will be officially approached.
- The Asia Cup trophy and medals remain in Dubai, still not in India’s possession.
Celebrations Overshadowed by Controversy
India’s Asia Cup 2025 triumph was meant to be a moment of national pride. Instead, a diplomatic standoff over a trophy has clouded the victory. With both sides refusing to back down, all eyes are now on whether cricket’s global governing body will intervene, and how soon.
Source: News Agencies
