Glory without grace: India refuse to collect Asia Cup trophy

India’s refusal to accept the Asia Cup trophy from Mohsin Naqvi came under direct orders from the BCCI, say sources

The Asia Cup 2025 final concluded with a twist as the Indian cricket team refused to accept the tournament trophy from Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman and Asian Cricket Council President Mohsin Naqvi. The Indian team’s refusal to receive the trophy came at the direction of the Board of Control for Cricket in India, according to sources familiar with the matter.

At the presentation ceremony, while individual Indian players collected their personal accolades, they refrained from collectively accepting the main trophy and awards, which would have been presented by Naqvi in his capacity as ACC president.

Despite the apparent protest, Naqvi remained on the field and did not withdraw from his official duties. The delay caused by the incident resulted in an awkward pause during the award ceremony held at the Dubai Cricket Stadium. Players from both teams, match officials, and Naqvi waited on the ground as the situation unfolded.

Later, the presenter Simon Doull announced that the Indian team would not be collecting the trophy. “I have been informed by the Asian Cricket Council that the Indian cricket team will not be collecting their awards tonight,” he said. “So that does conclude the post-match presentation,” he added, bringing the proceedings to an abrupt end.

The Asian Cricket Council has not issued a formal statement on the matter yet.