Know the real reason why India were denied Asia Cup 2025 trophy

India declined to accept the Asia Cup 2025 trophy from ACC and PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi, leading to a delayed ceremony and sparking fresh controversy.

Team India (Image Credit: BCCI)

The Asia Cup 2025 final ended with India lifting their record ninth title, but the post-match presentation ceremony was overshadowed by a major controversy. The Indian players, who had just secured a memorable win over Pakistan in Dubai, declined to receive the trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi. What was meant to be a moment of celebration turned into an awkward standoff that delayed the closing proceedings.

According to sources, the Indian camp was uncomfortable with Naqvi being at the center of the trophy handover. This stemmed from a series of earlier flashpoints during the tournament, including strong comments and social media posts made by Naqvi that were perceived in India as provocative. The players and management felt accepting the trophy directly from him would compromise their stance, especially after weeks of heightened political and sporting tension.

Also read: India vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2025 final: A look back at their last multi-national tournament final

The presentation stand remained set up for nearly an hour, but with no change in position from either side, the ceremony was delayed. Players collected their individual awards on the ground, but the main trophy was kept aside as the dispute lingered. Eventually, the situation reached a point where officials had to remove the trophy from the stage altogether, leaving fans puzzled about the unprecedented turn of events.

Why did India take a firm stand?

For India, the refusal was not just about a single moment but about maintaining dignity and drawing a line on respect. Team sources indicated that Naqvi’s earlier conduct during the tournament, including his choice of words and actions directed at Indian players, was unacceptable. The team wanted the trophy presentation to be handled by a neutral official, such as a representative from the Emirates Cricket Board, but this request was reportedly rejected.

Watch the match highlights between India and Pakistan

The delay created visible discomfort among the spectators at the stadium, many of whom stayed back expecting to witness the traditional trophy lift. Instead, celebrations were limited to on-field interactions, group photos, and players lifting smaller individual prizes. The main silverware, ironically, was not presented on stage that night.

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