The Asia Cup 2025 final concluded with an unexpected controversy as the Indian cricket team reportedly refused to accept the tournament trophy from Mohsin Naqvi, Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC).
According to informed sources, the Indian team’s refusal to receive the trophy from Naqvi came at the direction of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The team displayed a notably rigid posture during the post-match proceedings, abstaining from stepping forward to collect the team trophy.
At the presentation ceremony, while individual Indian players did receive their personal accolades, they refrained from collectively accepting the main trophy and awards, which would have been presented by Naqvi in his capacity as ACC President.
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Despite the apparent protest, Naqvi remained on the field and did not withdraw from his official duties. The delay caused by the incident resulted in an awkward pause during the award ceremony held at the Dubai Cricket Stadium. Players from both teams, match officials, and Naqvi waited on the ground as the situation unfolded.
Later, Simon Doull, the presenter for the host broadcaster, announced that the Indian team would not be collecting the trophy. “I have been informed by the Asian Cricket Council that the Indian cricket team will not be collecting their awards tonight,” Doull told the ceremony. “So that does conclude the post-match presentation,” he added, bringing the proceedings to an abrupt end.
The Asian Cricket Council has not issued a formal statement on the matter.