Asia Cup Trophy Dispute: Mohsin Naqvi refuses to hand title to India, locks it in Dubai
In a sensational post-final twist, the Asia Cup 2025 trophy remains under lock and key at the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) headquarters in Dubai after Indian players declined to accept it from ACC President and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
According to reports, the trophy will “not be moved or handed over to India” without Naqvi’s direct approval. The development follows the tense presentation ceremony where Naqvi walked away with the trophy after India’s victory over Pakistan on September 28 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
A source close to the ACC told PTI:
“As of today, the trophy is still in ACC offices in Dubai with clear instructions from Naqvi that it should not be moved or handed over to anyone without his approval. Naqvi has given clear directions that only he will hand over the trophy personally to the Indian team or the BCCI.”
The situation has further escalated the ongoing India-Pakistan cricket tensions, with the BCCI reportedly set to raise the matter at the next ICC conference.
Background: Political Strain Overshadows Asia Cup
The entire Asia Cup 2025 was marred by strained relations between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor, led by Indian forces. Both sides reportedly avoided formal gestures of goodwill throughout the tournament.
Sources within the BCCI have expressed strong objection to Naqvi’s “politically charged” behavior and his refusal to release the trophy. The board also took issue with Naqvi’s social media activity during the event, calling it “provocative and inappropriate.”
India’s Triumph Overshadowed
Despite India’s clinical 35-run victory over Pakistan in the final, the trophy controversy has eclipsed the sporting achievement.
Asia Cup 2025 Final Summary
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | India vs Pakistan |
| Venue | Dubai International Cricket Stadium |
| Date | September 28, 2025 |
| Result | India won by 35 runs |
| Player of the Match | Jasprit Bumrah |
| Player of the Tournament | Rohit Sharma |
An ACC insider revealed:
“It remains to be seen what the long-term implications will be for Naqvi or the PCB. The BCCI believes Naqvi had no authority to withhold the trophy and will pursue the matter officially.”
Speculation is now rife that the BCCI may seek Naqvi’s censure or removal from his ICC Director post, citing misconduct and breach of protocol.
