The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced it will formally take up the Asia Cup 2025 trophy controversy with the International Cricket Council (ICC), after the Indian team refused to accept the trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Chairperson Mohsin Naqvi.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that the issue will be discussed at the ICC meeting scheduled for early November in Dubai. He said the board will strongly protest against Naqvi’s handling of the matter.
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Saikia explained that India’s decision was rooted in government policy. “This Asia Cup is a multinational tournament. We don’t play bilateral series. The Indian team is proud of defeating Pakistan, but we decided not to take the trophy from ACC Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who is a central leader of the Pakistan Government,” he said.
Why India refused trophy
According to Saikia, the BCCI had informed the ACC in advance that the team would not receive the trophy from Naqvi. Following the refusal, the trophy was retrieved from the field, leaving the ceremony incomplete.
Despite winning the Asia Cup, the Indian players stood firm on their decision. Naqvi remained on stage, awarded medals to the runner-up side, and ended the event without handing over the trophy.
Naqvi’s reaction and standoff
The ACC chief, who also heads the Pakistan Cricket Board, did not bow to pressure and carried the trophy and medals away after the ceremony. Indian officials have now demanded that both be returned soon.
Saikia expressed surprise over Naqvi’s decision. “He took the trophy and medals with him, which was shocking,” he said.
Even without the official trophy presentation, the Indian squad was rewarded by the BCCI. Saikia announced a cash prize of ₹21 crore for the players, recognizing their win against Pakistan.
