Asia Cup 2025: Mohsin Naqvi apologizes to India, here's the update on the Asia Cup trophy controversy

Asia Cup 2025: The final of the T20 Asia Cup 2025 not only witnessed a spectacular comeback by the Indian cricket team, but also sparked a unique controversy off the field. Team India, which won the title by defeating Pakistan by 5 wickets, not only defeated its neighbors on the field but also made headlines with a bold move at the awards ceremony. The Indian players flatly refused to accept the trophy and medals from Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, prompting chants of "Bharat Mata Ki Jai" throughout the stadium. This incident has reignited old tensions between the two countries.

India's thrilling victory in the final: Tilak Varma becomes the hero

Winning the toss and electing to bat first in the final, the Pakistani team posted a respectable total of 146 runs in 20 overs. However, India suffered a major setback in reply—three wickets fell for just 20 runs. It seemed history was repeating itself, but Tilak Varma took root at the crease and launched a one-sided assault. With his brilliant unbeaten innings of 69, he not only kept the scoreboard steady but also took the team to the target with a six in the final over. Rinku Singh ended the match with a four as the winning stroke, which won the hearts of the fans.

For Tilak's explosive innings, he was awarded Player of the Match. This victory was India's third consecutive victory against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025. The Indian bowlers and batsmen kept the Pakistani camp on edge throughout the group stage and Super Four, making it clear that this time the battle was a one-sided affair. Captain Suryakumar Yadav said after the match, "We not only won, but also sent a message—if you know how to play cricket, you also have to earn respect."

The Drama of the Awards Ceremony: Naqvi's Anger and the Trophy Abduction

The final had barely faded when the awards ceremony shocked everyone. When Mohsin Naqvi reached the podium with the trophy, the Indian players pulled back in unison. Thousands of Indian fans in the stadium immediately raised the heat by chanting "Bharat Mata ki Jai." Naqvi stood alone for about 10 minutes, but finally, angrily, he collected the trophy, medals, and all the awards and left the stadium.

According to sources, Naqvi taunted as he left, "If you want the trophy and medals, come and collect them at the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) office in Dubai." This statement went viral on social media and sparked a debate between fans of both countries. However, within a few hours, Naqvi made a U-turn and apologized on social media, but the controversy did not end there.

Meeting in Dubai: Apologized, Naqvi insists on trophy

Immediately after the trophy controversy, an emergency meeting of cricket officials from India and Pakistan was called in Dubai. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated, "What happened was wrong. I am sorry." However, when BCCI officials demanded the return of the trophy and medals, Naqvi flatly refused. He stipulated that Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav personally come to Dubai to collect the trophy. The BCCI responded sharply, "When you were in front of them, they didn't take the trophy. Do you think they'll chase you now?"

The debate at the meeting became so heated that voices rose between the two sides. Naqvi's stubborn stance clearly indicates that the matter will not be resolved.

PCB cornered in ACC meeting: Shelar's question, Naqvi's apology

The controversy took a new turn at the official ACC meeting on September 30. BCCI Vice President Rajiv Shukla and representative Ashish Shelar participated. During the discussion, Shelar put Naqvi in ​​the dock, asking, "You congratulated Nepal on their victory against the West Indies, but why were you silent on India's Asia Cup win?" This question put Naqvi on the back foot. As pressure mounted, he apologized and said, "The mistake after the India-Pakistan final was mine. Hearty congratulations to India for the Asia Cup 2025."

According to media reports, Naqvi clarified that it was a personal mistake, but he remains firm on the trophy dispute. When BCCI officials insisted on returning the trophy, Naqvi reiterated, "The trophy will be returned, but Suryakumar Yadav will have to come to the ACC office." This statement appeared insulting to the BCCI, and sources indicate that the matter could now escalate internationally.

Future ICC Meeting: A New Chapter in the Controversy?

Mohsin Naqvi's stance clearly indicates that the Asia Cup 2025 trophy dispute will make headlines at the ICC Annual Meeting in November. The BCCI has indicated that it will file a formal complaint with the ICC, calling the PCB's behavior "inappropriate." Cricket experts believe that this controversy will not only impact bilateral relations but also raise questions about the impartiality of the ACC.

For now, Team India's victory is being celebrated, but the absence of the trophy makes the celebrations feel incomplete. Suryakumar Yadav said, "The trophy is in our hearts, but we know the game of respect." Cricket fans are now awaiting the ICC's decision—will this controversy calm down, or will it unleash a new storm?