In a stunning end to the Asia Cup 2025 final, India defeated Pakistan by five wickets — but refused to accept the trophy from Mohsin Naqvi, the ACC President and Pakistan’s Interior Minister. The presentation was abruptly canceled, leaving champions without a physical award.
Why This Moment Is Unprecedented
Cricket is no stranger to controversies, but it’s rare for a winning team to be denied their trophy outright. India’s refusal to accept the award from Naqvi, amid political tensions, sparked chaos at the post-match ceremony. The presentation was delayed by over an hour, and moments before the trophy was to be handed over, it was removed from the dais altogether.
Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav expressed his disappointment, calling it “the one thing I’ve never seen” in his playing career — a team being denied its own trophy after victory.
What Happened on the Field
- Pakistan, batting first, was bowled out for 146.
- India successfully chased the target, scoring 150/5 with Tilak Varma anchoring the innings with an unbeaten 69.
- But all the on-field drama was overshadowed by what happened (or rather didn’t happen) on stage.
Why India Refused the Trophy
The Indian team had been refusing to shake hands with the Pakistani side throughout the tournament — at the toss, after matches, and even during presentations.
When it came time for the trophy ceremony, India declined to receive it from Mohsin Naqvi, citing his role as Pakistan’s Interior Minister and chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board.
Naqvi reportedly insisted on handling the presentation himself. When India refused, the trophy was removed and the presentation was scrapped.
Fallout & Reactions
- The BCCI has publicly confirmed the refusal, stating, “We have decided not to take the trophy from the ACC chairman.”
- Critics, including former Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik, called India’s decision a mistake that will “haunt” the team — saying that refusing a hard-earned trophy undermines the sport.
- Pakistani officials, including captain Salman Agha, said India’s refusal disrespected cricket itself, not just Pakistan.
What It Means for Cricket
This event pushes the boundary between politics and sport into sharp focus. India’s stand may satisfy patriotic sentiments among fans, but it raises tough questions about sportsmanship and international cooperation in cricket administration.
The ACC and ICC may need to revisit protocols for trophy presentation in politically charged situations. Meanwhile, the moment will be remembered not just for India’s win, but for the absence of formal recognition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was India still declared Asia Cup champion?
Yes. The board officially named India the winner despite the missing trophy.
Did players receive medals?
Yes, individual awards like “Player of the Match” were still distributed, but the team trophy wasn’t presented.
Why was Mohsin Naqvi involved in the presentation?
Naqvi serves as President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and also holds roles in Pakistani governance and PCB leadership.
Could India get the trophy later?
Possibly. The BCCI has raised the issue and there may be a delayed formal presentation or arbitration.
