Asia Cup 2025: BCCI secretary slams Mohsin Naqvi over trophy drama

Amid the ongoing controversy surrounding the Asia Cup trophy, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia has strongly criticized Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president Mohsin Naqvi, calling his conduct 'unethical.' The dispute began after the Indian players declined to accept the trophy from Naqvi due to his anti-India position. Following the refusal, Naqvi reportedly walked away with both the winners’ trophy and medals.

Speaking to the media, Saikia expressed his displeasure at the development. “The ACC chief wanted to hand over the trophy, but we had already made it clear that the Indian team would not accept it from him. What shocked us was that, in a completely inappropriate manner, he took the trophy and medals away. This was both unexpected and improper, as they legally and ethically belong to the Indian team. We can only hope he returns them soon, and that he keeps them safely so they aren’t damaged,” Saikia remarked.

Saikia, who was recently re-elected as BCCI secretary, also praised the Indian side for their emphatic win against Pakistan. “We are thrilled with the team’s performance. Beyond that, we don’t wish to comment further because our focus remains on cricket itself. What matters most is that India is the champion of Asia, as well as the world,” he added.

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The post-match presentation was marred by repeated delays. Initially, the ceremony started almost 90 minutes late for unknown reasons. Pakistan’s team, led by Salman Agha, also arrived late, and further delays followed after the Indian players refused to share the stage with Naqvi.

Reacting to the incident, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav said his side was unfairly denied the opportunity to lift the 2025 Asia Cup trophy.