India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 Controversy: Where is the Trophy?
The Asia Cup 2025 final between India and Pakistan was supposed to be remembered as another thrilling chapter in the historic rivalry. India defeated Pakistan by five wickets to clinch the title, but instead of celebration, the tournament ended in controversy. The trophy ceremony sparked outrage, confusion, and a storm of debate across the cricketing world.
What exactly happened?
After the final in Lahore, the stage was set for the Indian team to receive the Asia Cup trophy and medals. However, things quickly took an unexpected turn. The presentation was led by Mohsin Naqvi, who holds the dual role of Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman. When Naqvi stepped forward to hand over the trophy, the Indian players refused to accept it.
This refusal led to an awkward standoff. Cameras captured players standing still while the officials waited. Eventually, the trophy and medals were taken off the podium. Shockingly, reports confirmed that Naqvi walked away with the trophy and medals instead of presenting them to the rightful winners.
Why did India refuse?
According to BCCI officials, the refusal came from a matter of principle. The Indian players and management reportedly felt it was “unethical” for the ACC President—who is also the PCB chief and directly linked to the opposing side—to present the award. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah later stated that the team was “denied their right” to celebrate the victory properly.
“We won the Asia Cup, but we were denied the chance to lift the trophy. This was our moment, and it was taken away from us.” — Captain Suryakumar Yadav
Where is the trophy now?
That is the million-dollar question. Eyewitnesses and media reports suggest that Mohsin Naqvi carried the trophy and medals out of the stadium. The ACC has not issued an official statement about the current location of the silverware, adding more fuel to the controversy. The BCCI has demanded that the trophy and medals be handed back to India, emphasizing that the title rightfully belongs to them.
Until the matter is resolved, the trophy’s whereabouts remain uncertain. Whether it is with Naqvi personally, kept in PCB custody, or secured by ACC officials is unclear. What is certain, however, is that this episode has cast a shadow on the spirit of cricket and the credibility of the Asia Cup.
Reactions
- Indian fans have expressed anger on social media, calling it a humiliation of the winning team.
- Pakistani commentators argue that India could have accepted the trophy formally and then raised objections later, instead of creating a scene.
- Neutral voices, including some former cricketers, have urged the ACC to clarify the situation and ensure the trophy is returned to India.
