Sources Confirm ‘Regret’ Over Trophy Fiasco
The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has expressed regret over the Asia Cup 2025 trophy controversy, admitting that the situation could have been avoided. The issue has sparked a major row in Asian cricket, as Mohsin Naqvi, ACC Chairman and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief, withheld the trophy from the Indian team after the final on Sunday.
Naqvi’s Actions Trigger Backlash
Mohsin Naqvi, who also plays a significant role in Pakistan’s political landscape, reportedly walked away from the presentation ceremony, taking the trophy and winners’ medals to his hotel room in Dubai. Since then, the trophy and medals have remained in his possession. Despite expressing regret through ACC sources, Naqvi has not issued a formal apology.
Tense Exchange With BCCI Officials
The controversy escalated when BCCI officials Rajeev Shukla and Ashish Shelar confronted Naqvi over his conduct. During a virtual ACC meeting, the BCCI representatives strongly objected, insisting that the trophy must be handed over to the rightful winners, India.
A source revealed that Naqvi initially avoided congratulating India for their unbeaten Asia Cup triumph. It was only after Shelar’s intervention that Naqvi formally acknowledged India’s success, praising Suryakumar Yadav and his team.
Diplomatic Efforts Underway
Sources also confirmed that diplomatic back-channel discussions are ongoing to ensure the Asia Cup trophy is delivered to India. Naqvi is set to fly back to Lahore, leaving uncertainty over when the trophy and medals will reach the Indian team.
BCCI Plans to Take Matter to ICC
The BCCI is prepared to escalate the matter further. Officials stated that if the trophy is not handed over promptly, the issue will be raised in the upcoming ICC meeting in November.
“Shukla and Shelar argued that the trophy belongs to the winning team and should not remain with an individual. They made it clear that the BCCI expects to collect the trophy as legitimate winners,” a source confirmed.
