Saira Imran Dubai witnessed high drama after the Asia Cup 2025 final when the Indian cricket team refused to accept the trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Mohsin Naqvi. The Asia Cup trophy controversy incident, which shocked fans worldwide, delayed the official presentation ceremony at Dubai Cricket Stadium.
According to reports, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had instructed the team not to receive the trophy directly from Naqvi. This unexpected move not only disrupted the event but also raised serious concerns about sportsmanship.
Mohsin Naqvi Stands Firm
Despite the boycott, Mohsin Naqvi stood his ground and did not hand the trophy to any alternate official. As a result, the Indian team walked away without officially collecting the trophy. Players of both teams remained on the field during the delay, but only Pakistani cricketers received their medals. In contrast, the Indian squad chose not to step onto the stage.
Partial Participation from Indian Players
Interestingly, Indian players Tilak Varma and Shivam Dube broke ranks with their team and collected their individual awards. Meanwhile, Naqvi personally presented the runner-up medals to the Pakistani squad, which accepted them without incident.
Event host Simon Doull later confirmed that the ACC had officially informed him in advance that the Indian team would not accept the trophy that evening.
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History of Poor Sportsmanship
This was not the first instance of strained behavior. During the Asia Cup, the Indian team reportedly refused to shake hands with Pakistani players after matches. The Indian captain also declined to take the traditional pre-final photo with his Pakistani counterpart, further straining relations.
Analysts and commentators have strongly criticized these actions, calling them a dangerous mix of politics and sports. Some experts stated that cricket had never seen such blatant disregard for sportsmanship as displayed in this tournament.
Analysts Call for Action Against India
Several cricket analysts argued that the BCCI and Indian players had disrespected the spirit of the game. They urged the ACC to consider disciplinary action, including a potential ban on India from future ceremonies, for boycotting the ACC President during the trophy presentation.
One commentator noted, “India has tarnished the image of the Asia Cup. The ACC must step in to protect the credibility of the tournament.”
Official Trophy Withdrawn from Stadium
Following India’s refusal, the original trophy was removed from the stadium. Instead, Indian players later resorted to sharing edited pictures on social media showing themselves with the cup. This move fueled even more criticism and mockery online.
Politics Overshadowed Cricket
Cricket fans expressed disappointment, saying that the game was overshadowed by political hostility. Many pointed out that the Asia Cup final should have been a celebration of sport, but it turned into a controversy that dominated headlines.
Political undertones were also highlighted earlier when Mohsin Naqvi criticized Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying that linking war with sports was “a sign of despair.”
Call for Respecting Sports Spirit
Despite India winning the Asia Cup 2025 title after defeating Pakistan in the final, the controversy surrounding the trophy overshadowed their victory. Fans and experts alike emphasized that respect, unity, and fair play are essential values in cricket.
Unless governing bodies take firm action, analysts warn, the Asia Cup risks losing its reputation as a symbol of Asian cricket unity.
