The aftermath of India's Asia Cup 2025 victory over Pakistan has been marred by controversy, with Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi facing heavy criticism and online trolling following a bizarre trophy presentation fiasco. The incident has sparked outrage, with many accusing Naqvi of politicizing the sport and disrespecting the spirit of the game.

The Trophy Presentation Debacle

After India's thrilling five-wicket victory against Pakistan in the Asia Cup final, the post-match presentation ceremony was delayed for over an hour due to a disagreement over who would present the trophy. The Indian team reportedly refused to accept the trophy from Mohsin Naqvi, who is not only the PCB chairman but also Pakistan's Interior Minister and the President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). Sources indicate that the Indian team had informed the ACC beforehand that they would not accept the trophy from Naqvi, citing his "strong anti-India stance" and controversial social media posts.

The Indian team was reportedly ready to receive the trophy from Emirates Cricket Board vice-chairman Khalid Al Zarooni, but Naqvi insisted on personally handing over the award. This led to a standoff, with Indian players remaining at a distance from the stage. Amidst the impasse and growing tension, the trophy was quietly taken backstage and was never presented to the Indian team in front of the crowd. The Indian team eventually returned to the dais after Naqvi's departure, celebrating with fans but without the trophy.

Social Media Outcry and Condemnation

The incident triggered a massive uproar on social media, with fans and analysts criticizing Naqvi's actions. Many users trolled Naqvi, accusing him of "running away" with the trophy and spoiling India's celebrations. Some users also pointed out the irony of the situation, with one commenting, "Indian Team celebrated with imaginary Asia Cup Trophy. They have just roasted Mohsin Naqvi & Pakistan throughout the tournament".

Critics condemned Naqvi for politicizing the sport, especially after he responded to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's congratulatory message with a controversial statement. Naqvi's tweet, which referenced past conflicts between India and Pakistan, was widely criticized as being disrespectful and inappropriate.

BCCI's Response and Potential ICC Intervention

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken strong exception to Naqvi's actions and is planning to lodge a formal protest with the International Cricket Council (ICC). BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia criticized Naqvi's decision to take the trophy and medals, calling it "extremely unfortunate and unsportsmanlike". The BCCI is also seeking the return of the trophy and medals to India.

Naqvi's Background and Cricket Administration

Mohsin Naqvi assumed the role of PCB chairman in February 2024 and was elected as the President of the ACC in April 2025. His appointment as PCB chief was met with criticism from some due to his limited experience in cricket administration. Prior to his involvement in cricket administration, Naqvi had a career in media and politics, serving as the caretaker Chief Minister of Punjab province and later as Pakistan's Interior Minister.

Shoaib Malik's Criticism

Former Pakistan cricket captain Shoaib Malik has also weighed in on the controversy, criticizing the Indian team's decision not to accept the trophy from Naqvi. Malik warned that the Indian players might regret their decision in the future.

The Asia Cup trophy fiasco has undoubtedly strained relations between the cricket boards of India and Pakistan. With the BCCI planning to raise the issue with the ICC, the controversy is likely to continue in the coming weeks.