India’s thrilling Asia Cup triumph over Pakistan has been overshadowed by an unprecedented trophy controversy — and now, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) says it will escalate the matter to the International Cricket Council (ICC).
The Incident That Sparked the Storm
India beat Pakistan by five wickets in the 2025 Asia Cup final in Dubai, sealing their ninth title in the tournament’s history. But when it came time for the post-match ceremony, the mood turned awkward. Players accepted their individual awards, but when asked to collect the Asia Cup trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president Mohsin Naqvi — who is also Pakistan’s Interior Minister and PCB chairman — the Indian team refused.
The presentation ceremony was cut short. Cameras captured Indian players smiling for photos but without the trophy in hand. It was a bizarre moment for a champion team — and one that quickly spiraled into a political and sporting row.
India’s Stand
The BCCI has called Naqvi’s involvement “politicization of the game.” Officials insist that a trophy ceremony should never be used for political theater, especially when the presenter is a sitting government minister from a rival nation.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed India would take the matter to the ICC at its November meeting in Dubai. “We will lodge a very strong protest. Our players were denied their rightful trophy, and we cannot allow such conduct to be repeated,” Saikia said.
India has also demanded the trophy and medals be formally handed over to the team.
Reaction From Players and Critics
Captain Suryakumar Yadav didn’t mince words after the match. “We won the Asia Cup, but we were denied the trophy. That’s not something I’ve ever seen in international cricket,” he said.
Reactions have been split. Some in Pakistan’s cricketing circles argue India disrespected the spirit of the game and should even face suspension from international tournaments. Indian voices, on the other hand, say this was about principle — not disrespect — pointing out that players still accepted their individual awards and celebrated on the field.
Bigger Picture
The episode underscores just how fraught India-Pakistan cricket remains. Despite occasional bilateral freezes and diplomatic standoffs, cricket has often been framed as a bridge between the two nations. But the Asia Cup final — instead of being remembered for India’s victory — may now be etched in memory as the night politics overshadowed sport.
The ICC has not yet commented on whether it will take up the matter formally. For now, India’s players and fans are left celebrating a trophy win — even though the actual silverware never made it into their hands.
