India clinched the Asia Cup 2025 title with a dramatic five-wicket win over Pakistan in Dubai, but the victory was overshadowed by the Mohsin Naqvi Asia Cup Trophy controversy. The Indian team declined to accept the trophy and winner’s medals from Mohsin Naqvi, who serves as both President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board.
The presentation ceremony was delayed by over an hour and abruptly ended before the trophy could be handed over. The trophy was reportedly removed from the podium and taken away by an ACC official, further fueling controversy.
Historical Winners & Record Holders
Most Asia Cup Titles
India now holds a record nine Asia Cup titles, the most by any nation. Sri Lanka and Pakistan follow behind, with fewer overall championships.
Trophy Presentation Disputes and Refusals
This incident was not the first time a winning team has hesitated to accept a trophy. In 1988, India notably refused to accept the Asia Cup trophy after winning, citing political tensions. In 2025, India’s refusal appears rooted in tension over Naqvi’s prominent Pakistani political role.
The 2025 Final & Trophy Drama
Match Recap
In the final played on September 28 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Pakistan were bowled out for 146 in 19.1 overs. India chased down the target in 19.4 overs, finishing at 150/5. Tilak Varma’s undefeated 69 powered the chase.
Trophy Presentation Fallout
Once on stage, officials including Naqvi prepared for the handover. But Indian players refused to engage with Naqvi. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia stated: “We have decided not to take the Asia Cup trophy from the ACC chairman, who happens to be one of the main leaders of Pakistan.”
Because the Indian team declined, the awarding ceremony was halted. Pakistani players accepted their medals and runner-up cheque, while the Asia Cup trophy was taken off stage and reportedly removed by an ACC official.
India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav later lamented: “A champion team is denied a trophy … we deserved it.”
Reactions, Politics & What It Means
India’s Stand & Future Moves
The BCCI has flagged the decision as a principled act, stating that the trophy and medals must be returned. India plans to raise the issue formally at the upcoming ICC conference.
Pakistan’s Perspective
Former captain Shoaib Malik criticized India’s refusal, warning it could “haunt” the team. Pakistan’s captain Salman Agha defended Naqvi’s role and called India’s actions disrespectful toward cricket.
Broader Implications for Cricket
This episode underscores the intersection of politics and sport in the India–Pakistan rivalry. It raises questions about how governing bodies balance the ceremonial roles of officials with neutrality, especially when one of them holds significant political office. The incident may prompt discussions on transparent and independent trophy presentation protocols in future tournaments.
FAQs
India won the Asia Cup 2025 by defeating Pakistan in the final in Dubai.
India declined to accept the trophy from Mohsin Naqvi, citing his dual role as ACC president and Pakistani political figure.
India leads with nine Asia Cup titles, the highest number among all competing nations.
