The Indian cricket team triumphed over Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 finals, winning by five wickets. This marks their third victory against Pakistan in the tournament, with dominant performances in both the group stage and the super-four rounds. India's success was assured as they displayed stellar performance right from the start.
Yet, following this historic victory, controversy arose during the trophy presentation. The Indian team, led by Suryakumar Yadav, refused to accept the Asia Cup trophy from Mohsin Naqvi's hands. As Naqvi stood waiting on the podium, the Indian players chose not to collect their trophy and winning medals, resulting in an atmosphere of awkwardness.
The Indian team was informed that Naqvi would present the trophy, but 'The Men in Blue' decided against receiving it from a Pakistani official. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) stood firmly behind the team’s decision. BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia stated that the Asia Cup trophy rightfully belongs to India as they are the winners. The BCCI plans to lodge a complaint against Naqvi at the next ICC meeting. Subsequently, Mohsin Naqvi departed with the trophy.
Mohsin Naqvi's Provocative Stances
Mohsin Naqvi, current Chairman of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), holds the position of Pakistan's Interior Minister. Known for his anti-India sentiments, Naqvi often issues statements escalating tension between the two countries. Last month, Naqvi echoed the sentiments of Pakistan's Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, who disparagingly compared India to a shiny Mercedes and Pakistan to a dump truck. Naqvi's threats of serious consequences in any confrontation further fueled the fire.
During a super-four match at the Asia Cup 2025, Pakistani fast bowler Haris Rauf made a gesture reminiscent of a downed aircraft, aimed at taunting India's military operations. Naqvi attempted to amplify the controversy by sharing a video clip of footballer Cristiano Ronaldo. When the International Cricket Council (ICC) fined Rauf 30 percent of his match fee, Naqvi chose to settle the fine personally.
Naqvi's Connections with Key Politicians
Appointed as PCB Chairman in February 2024, Naqvi took the helm at the ACC in April, succeeding Sri Lanka's Shammi Silva. He formerly served as the caretaker Chief Minister of Punjab from January 2023 to February 2024 and has been Pakistan's Interior Minister since March 2024.
Aligned closely with Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Asif Ali Zardari, Naqvi, upon assuming the ACC chairmanship, promised to transform Asia into a global cricket hub, committing to infrastructure development, including the renovation of cricket stadiums. He took a hands-on role overseeing matches during the 2025 Champions Trophy held in Pakistan.
