The controversy surrounding the Asia Cup Trophy between India and Pakistan seems far from over. Even weeks after the tournament concluded — with India defeating Pakistan in a high-stakes final — tensions remain.
According to reports, the Asia Cup trophy, which should have been presented to the Indian team after their victory, is currently locked inside the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) headquarters in Dubai. The trophy is being held under strict orders from ACC Chairman and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief, Mohsin Naqvi, who has instructed that it must not be moved or handed to anyone in his absence.
Naqvi, who also serves as Pakistan’s Interior Minister, allegedly took the trophy from the presentation stage after the Indian players declined to receive it from him during the post-match ceremony on September 28.
"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 and in-person presence," a source close to Naqvi told PTI.
The source added that Naqvi has insisted he will personally present the trophy to the Indian team or the BCCI whenever the opportunity arises.
Tensions were apparent throughout the tournament, with Indian players avoiding handshakes with their Pakistani counterparts and both teams engaging in subtle political gestures on the field.
Meanwhile, the BCCI is reportedly preparing to raise this issue at the upcoming ICC board meeting, where discussions may include seeking disciplinary action against Naqvi or even calling for his removal as an ICC Director.
