Trophy Tensions: Mohsin Naqvi’s Apology Not Enough for India

The Asia Cup trophy saga has taken another intense turn as ACC Chief and PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has issued an apology to the BCCI after chaotic scenes erupted at the final on September 28. Despite this, the disagreement over the trophy handover remains unresolved. During the recent ACC meeting held on September 30, Naqvi softened his tone but conditioned that India’s captain must be present at the ACC office in Dubai to collect the trophy and medals. This demand was promptly rejected by BCCI officials, who insist that the trophy handover must adhere to formal ACC protocols without imposing additional conditions. BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla criticized Naqvi for taking possession of the trophy and medals without a proper ceremony, underscoring that these items rightfully belong to the council and not any individual. Further elaboration from BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia reinforced their stance: “We have decided not to accept the Asia Cup 2025 trophy from the ACC chairman, who happens to be one of the senior leaders of Pakistan. That was a conscious decision.” Saikia labeled the actions of the ACC Chief as “extremely unfortunate and unsportsmanlike,” emphasizing that proper guidelines must be followed. Given the high tensions between the two cricket boards, Naqvi’s apology alone does not suffice. Until the trophy and medals are ceremoniously handed over according to ACC rules, it seems this saga will persist, keeping fans and experts riveted to this unfolding drama.