ACC Chief Mohsin Naqvi Hands Over Asia Cup 2025 Trophy to UAE : Reports

Asia Cricket Council (ACC) chief Mohsin Naqvi has reportedly handed over the Asia Cup 2025 trophy to the UAE Cricket Board, bypassing India's cricket team amid ongoing tensions. Naqvi, who also serves as Pakistan Cricket Board chairman and Pakistan's Interior Minister, took the action following India's objections during an ACC virtual meeting on September 30.

Controversy Over Trophy Handling

India, represented by BCCI officials Rajeev Shukla and Ashish Shelar, had refused to accept the trophy from Naqvi, citing concerns over his conduct. They objected to Naqvi taking the trophy and medals after India's five-wicket win over Pakistan, and also highlighted his failure to formally congratulate the victorious team.

The BCCI demanded that the trophy remain at the ACC headquarters in Dubai for collection, but Naqvi reportedly did not offer a solution and remained largely silent during discussions.

India Threatens ICC Escalation

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed India's decision not to accept the trophy directly from Naqvi, calling his actions "extremely unfortunate and unsportsmanlike." India has signalled its intention to raise the issue at the International Cricket Council (ICC) conference in Dubai in November, seeking the swift return of the trophy and medals.

Growing Tensions in Asian Cricket

The handover of the Asia Cup trophy to the UAE has intensified the dispute between India and Pakistan within the ACC framework. BCCI officials have emphasised that this step does not absolve Naqvi of responsibility and warned that a strong protest will be lodged at the ICC level.

With the Asia Cup concluded, the spotlight now shifts to how the ACC and ICC handle the contentious trophy transfer, keeping cricket fans and officials on edge.