The cricketing world is abuzz with a fresh controversy that has moved beyond the boundary ropes and into the realm of high-stakes diplomacy. At the heart of the issue is the Asia Cup trophy, and a stern message from Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Following India’s victory in the Asia Cup 2025, a protocol dispute emerged. The Indian team reportedly refused to accept the trophy from Mohsin Naqvi, who is also the President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) . This refusal, rooted in the long-standing political and sporting tensions between the two nations, has now escalated into a public standoff.
In a move that adds a new layer to the saga, Naqvi has proposed a formal trophy presentation ceremony in Dubai on November 10, 2025. He has issued a direct and public message to the BCCI: “If you want the trophy…” . This proposal is seen as both an olive branch and a firm stance, insisting on his role as ACC chief in the official handover process .
The PCB chairman has made it clear that he intends to personally present the coveted trophy to the Indian team during this Dubai event . The BCCI, however, remains non-committal, with reports suggesting they are wary of the political optics of such a ceremony .
This isn’t just about a silverware handover. For the BCCI, accepting the trophy from Naqvi could be seen domestically as a softening of their stance on bilateral cricketing ties with Pakistan. For Naqvi and the PCB, it’s a matter of upholding the authority and protocols of the ACC, of which he is the head.
The situation has already drawn strong reactions, with the refusal to accept the trophy sparking political outrage and deeply divided opinions back in India . The BCCI has even issued a “fresh warning” to Naqvi over his continued possession of the trophy in his Dubai office .
With the proposed Dubai ceremony just weeks away on November 10, all eyes are on the BCCI’s next move. Will they send a representative to formally receive the Asia Cup trophy? Or will this diplomatic impasse continue, leaving the symbol of Asia’s premier cricketing tournament in a state of limbo?
The ACC has stated that the BCCI is welcome to bring a member of their board to the ceremony to officially accept the trophy on India’s behalf . The ball, quite literally, is now in the BCCI’s court.
| Event | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Proposed Trophy Presentation Ceremony | November 10, 2025 | Dubai |
| Asia Cup 2025 Final | September 2025 | Colombo, Sri Lanka |
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