The Asia Cup 2025 may have concluded with India’s thrilling victory over Pakistan, but the post-tournament drama continues to unfold off the field. In a controversial move, Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Chairman and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chief Mohsin Naqvi has reportedly locked the Asia Cup trophy inside the ACC’s Dubai headquarters, instructing staff that only he will personally hand it over to the Indian team or the BCCI.
The decision has sparked diplomatic tension within cricketing circles, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reportedly preparing to raise the issue at the upcoming International Cricket Council (ICC) meeting. The trophy, which was meant to be presented to India after their final win, remains in Dubai weeks after the tournament ended.
🧠 Trophy Controversy: Timeline of Events
| Date | Event Description |
|---|---|
| Sep 28, 2025 | India defeats Pakistan in Asia Cup final |
| Sep 29, 2025 | Trophy presentation ceremony disrupted |
| Sep 30, 2025 | Trophy taken by Mohsin Naqvi to ACC office |
| Oct 10, 2025 | Naqvi instructs staff not to hand over trophy |
| Oct 11, 2025 | BCCI considers raising issue at ICC |
Sources suggest that the Indian team refused to accept the trophy from Naqvi during the presentation ceremony, citing protocol violations and political sensitivities. In response, Naqvi reportedly walked away with the trophy and later issued a directive that it would not be handed over without his presence.
📊 Asia Cup 2025 Final Summary
| Team | Score | Result |
|---|---|---|
| India | 287/6 (50 overs) | Won by 32 runs |
| Pakistan | 255 all out (48.3) | Runner-up |
| Player of the Match | Jasprit Bumrah | 4 wickets |
| Venue | Dubai International Stadium | Packed house |
India’s win marked their eighth Asia Cup title, further solidifying their dominance in the continental tournament. However, the trophy handover fiasco has overshadowed the celebrations.
🧾 Mohsin Naqvi’s Statement and Justification
Naqvi, speaking to Pakistani media, defended his actions, stating: “The trophy is a symbol of continental pride. It must be handed over with dignity. I will personally give it to India when the time is right.”
| Naqvi’s Position | Justification Provided |
|---|---|
| Trophy Custody | Symbolic importance, personal handover |
| India’s Refusal | “Disrespectful and politically motivated” |
| ACC Protocol | “Chairman must present the trophy” |
The ACC has not issued an official clarification, but insiders confirm that Naqvi’s directive has created unease among member boards.
🗣️ Reactions from BCCI and ICC Circles
- BCCI Official (anonymous): “This is unprecedented. The trophy belongs to the winning team. We will raise this formally.”
- ICC Executive Board Member: “Such behavior undermines the spirit of the game.”
- Former Cricketers: “Let the players celebrate. Politics should not interfere.”
The BCCI is expected to demand either an immediate handover or a formal apology from the ACC Chairman.
🧭 Trophy Custody and Protocols: Past Precedents
| Tournament | Trophy Handover Protocol | Controversy Level |
|---|---|---|
| ICC World Cup | ICC President hands over trophy | None |
| Champions Trophy | Host board presents trophy | None |
| Asia Cup 2023 | ACC Chairman hands over trophy | Smooth |
| Asia Cup 2025 | Trophy withheld by Chairman | High |
This is the first known instance where a tournament trophy has been withheld post-victory due to administrative or political reasons.
🧾 Cultural and Political Undercurrents
The India-Pakistan cricket rivalry often carries political undertones, and this incident has further complicated bilateral cricket diplomacy. Analysts believe Naqvi’s move may be aimed at asserting PCB’s influence within the ACC, especially after Pakistan’s loss in the final.
| Political Angle | Implication |
|---|---|
| India-Pakistan Tensions | Trophy handover seen as symbolic resistance |
| ACC Leadership Dynamics | Naqvi asserting control over member boards |
| BCCI’s Global Standing | Pushback expected at ICC level |
Disclaimer
This news content is based on verified media reports, cricket board statements, and tournament records as of October 11, 2025. It is intended for editorial use and public awareness. The information does not constitute diplomatic commentary, sports arbitration, or political endorsement and adheres to ethical journalism standards.
