Asia Cup Controversy: Mohsin Naqvi Faces Possible ICC Sacking Over Trophy Incident
The 2025 Asia Cup has gone down as one of the most controversial editions in the tournament’s history—not for the on-field action alone, but for the drama surrounding the trophy.
After India defeated Pakistan in the final on September 28 in Dubai, the Indian team refused to accept the Asia Cup trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chief Mohsin Naqvi. In an unexpected move, Naqvi walked away with the trophy, which now remains locked at the ACC’s Dubai headquarters with strict instructions that it not be moved or handed over without the Chairman’s approval.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) expressed strong disapproval of Naqvi’s actions and plans to raise the matter at the upcoming ICC meeting. Reports suggest that the governing body could push for Naqvi’s censure or even removal from his ICC Director position.
“It remains to be seen what the long-term consequences will be for Naqvi or the PCB,” a source told PTI. “The BCCI believes he had no right to insist on personally presenting the trophy to the Indian team while refusing to send it to the official host board of the event.”
The incident added to the tense atmosphere throughout the tournament, which was already overshadowed by India-Pakistan hostilities. Players from both sides avoided traditional gestures like handshakes and sometimes engaged in politically charged antics. Naqvi also made political comments on social media, further fueling the controversy.
As of now, the trophy remains in ACC custody, with clear instructions that only Naqvi himself may present it in person to the Indian team or the BCCI when the situation allows.
The Asia Cup saga is now not just about cricket, but also the delicate balance of sportsmanship and diplomacy in one of cricket’s most intense rivalries.
News Source : Information for this article was gathered from a variety of reliable news outlets.
