Asia Cup Trophy still in Dubai, Naqvi says it won’t move without his permission

The Asia Cup trophy, which was not presented to the Indian team after their win over Pakistan in the final, remains locked inside the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) headquarters in Dubai. According to reports, ACC chief Mohsin Naqvi has issued strict orders that the trophy “should not be moved or handed over” without his personal approval.

The drama unfolded after India’s emphatic victory against Pakistan on September 28. The Indian players reportedly refused to accept the trophy from Naqvi who also serves as Pakistan’s Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman and Interior Minister amid heightened political tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack.

Naqvi’s Control Over the Trophy

Sources close to Naqvi revealed that the chairman has instructed staff that only he will personally hand over the trophy to the Indian team or the BCCI, whenever that takes place. The trophy, for now, remains under lock and key at the ACC office in Dubai.

Also Read: 'He’s not big enough to decide': Former India star slams Mohsin Naqvi over Asia Cup trophy row

BCCI’s Strong Reaction

The BCCI has taken serious exception to Naqvi’s actions, particularly his decision to walk away with the trophy. Officials have vowed to raise the issue at the upcoming ICC meeting, with reports suggesting that a formal move to censure or even remove Naqvi as ICC Director could be discussed.

The 2025 Asia Cup has been marred by Indo-Pak hostilities both on and off the field, turning what should’ve been a celebration of cricket into a political standoff.