India Pushes to Penalize Naqvi Over Trophy Standoff
India’s cricket board is reportedly preparing action against Mohsin Naqvi, seeking his removal from international cricket forums, following a dispute over the Asia Cup trophy.
Dispute Over Asia Cup Trophy
At the end of the 2025 Asia Cup, India defeated Pakistan in the final, but the trophy presentation became controversial. India’s team declined to accept the trophy and medals from Naqvi during the ceremony. India alleged his political role and prior statements made him an unsuitable figure for that role. The trophy was then taken from the venue and reportedly locked in the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) offices in Dubai under Naqvi’s instructions.
BCCI Demands Action
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has said it will raise this matter with the International Cricket Council (ICC). Reports suggest India wants Naqvi censured and possibly removed from his position as ICC director or equivalent global roles.
Naqvi’s Positions
Mohsin Naqvi serves as Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and President of the ACC. He is also Pakistan’s Interior Minister, a dual role that critics say compromises cricketing impartiality.
Challenges and Implications
The move to sanction Naqvi would be rare and difficult. International cricket bodies generally resist political interference in sports governance. Any ICC action would require consensus from its board members. Observers say the clash reflects growing politicization of sports in the India–Pakistan rivalry.
