Mohsin Naqvi: ACC Chief and Pakistan Minister in Asia Cup Trophy Controversy

India’s Asia Cup Triumph Marred by Trophy Standoff With Mohsin Naqvi.

India celebrated a five-wicket victory over Pakistan in the Asia Cup final on Sunday in Dubai, but the post-match trophy presentation turned into unprecedented drama. The Indian team refused to accept the trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who is also Pakistan’s Interior Minister and chief of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Trophy Drama on Stage
During the presentation, captain Suryakumar Yadav and his teammates stayed off the podium as Naqvi stood firm alongside other officials. The BCCI supported the team’s stance, stating that India would not “legitimise” the Pakistan minister by receiving the trophy from him.

With no compromise reached, the ceremony continued without the traditional handover. Indian players Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, and Kuldeep Yadav collected their individual awards from other dignitaries, while Pakistan received their runners-up medals. Naqvi eventually left with the trophy, leaving India to celebrate without the silverware.

Who Is Mohsin Naqvi?

Naqvi holds three major positions:

Chairman, Asian Cricket Council (ACC)

Chief, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)

Interior Minister of Pakistan

Known for his outspoken anti-India stance, Naqvi’s dual political and cricketing roles have drawn criticism in India, particularly after the Dubai standoff.

BCCI’s Protest
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said the board will lodge a “very strong protest” at the ICC meeting in November, justifying the team’s refusal by stating India could not accept a trophy from someone “waging a war against the country.”