The presentation of the ACC Emerging Asia Cup 2023 trophy to Pakistan A has reignited a controversy surrounding the Asia Cup 2025 trophy and the conduct of Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
In July 2023, Pakistan A defeated India A by 128 runs in the final of the Emerging Asia Cup, held in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Tayyab Tahir's impressive century (108 off 71 balls) propelled Pakistan A to a total of 352/8, which proved too much for India A, who were bowled out for 224 in 40 overs. This victory marked Pakistan's second consecutive win in the tournament.
However, a more recent controversy surrounds the Asia Cup 2025, where India defeated Pakistan in the final. Following the match, a dispute arose during the trophy presentation. According to reports, the Indian team, led by Suryakumar Yadav, declined to accept the trophy from ACC chief Mohsin Naqvi, who is also the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief and Pakistan's Interior Minister. This decision stemmed from protocol concerns and the BCCI's desire for a neutral figure to handle the presentation, given the strained relationship between the two cricketing nations.
Subsequently, a video surfaced showing Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori praising Naqvi's actions during the event, with inflammatory remarks against India made in Naqvi's presence. Tessori alleged that the Indian side hoped Naqvi would step aside so they could receive the trophy from another official, but Naqvi outmaneuvered them. He further claimed that Naqvi "handled the team like dehshat gardon (terrorists)," took the trophy, and left, implying that "now, the whole of India is chasing the trophy". Naqvi's silence and smile during these comments were interpreted as tacit approval, sparking outrage on Indian social media.
The BCCI has privately labeled Naqvi's behavior as a "serious breach of decorum". The incident has led to calls for Naqvi's removal from his ACC leadership position. Some reports even suggested that Naqvi demanded a personal meeting with Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav in Dubai before handing over the trophy, a claim that further fueled the controversy. Initially, Naqvi had allegedly "stormed off" with the trophy, delaying the post-match presentation. Recent reports indicate that Naqvi has since apologized and the trophy has been handed over to the UAE board. However, there are still questions regarding whether he will allow the trophy to be transferred to India.
The resurfacing of this issue, coinciding with Naqvi's presentation of the Emerging Asia Cup trophy to Pakistan A, has further amplified the scrutiny surrounding his conduct and raised concerns about the ACC's leadership and the need for upholding neutrality and sportsmanship. The incident continues to be a subject of debate and discussion among cricket fans and officials alike.
