Asia Cup 2025 Trophy Controversy: Pakistan Minister Naqvi Refuses to Hand Over, BCCI Threatens ICC Action

The Asia Cup 2025 trophy dispute has escalated tensions between India and Pakistan cricket authorities, with Pakistan’s Interior Minister and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi refusing to hand over the trophy to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The controversy began when the BCCI formally requested the trophy be sent to India following India’s victory in the tournament.

Naqvi, however, insisted on a ceremonial handover, stating that the trophy should be presented in a formal event where a BCCI officer and an Indian team player personally receive it. “There must be a presentation ceremony at which a BCCI officer and a participating Indian player collect the trophy directly from me,” Naqvi reportedly declared. This stance has sparked widespread debate across cricket boards and fans in both countries, highlighting the sensitivity of Indo-Pak sporting relations.

The BCCI responded to Naqvi’s demand with a stern warning, indicating that failure to send the trophy could result in the issue being escalated to the International Cricket Council (ICC). “If the trophy is not handed over promptly, the matter will be taken to the ICC for resolution,” a BCCI spokesperson said. The move underscores the seriousness with which the Indian cricket board views adherence to standard procedures for tournament trophy presentations.

The ongoing deadlock has prompted discussions on the role of politics in sports administration. Observers note that while the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) oversees the Asia Cup, the involvement of national ministers in cricket matters has complicated what is usually a routine ceremonial procedure. Analysts suggest that a swift resolution is critical to maintain goodwill between the boards and prevent interference in future tournaments.

Fans have taken to social media to express their opinions, with many supporting a neutral, ICC-mediated solution. Others have voiced concerns over Pakistan’s unusual handling of the trophy, calling it “a politicization of cricket.” Meanwhile, both boards are reportedly in talks behind the scenes to find a compromise, though no official agreement has yet been announced.

The Asia Cup trophy saga serves as a reminder of how cricket in South Asia continues to be intertwined with diplomacy, national pride, and administrative authority. With the BCCI prepared to escalate the matter to the ICC, cricket fans worldwide are awaiting a resolution to ensure the rightful champions of Asia Cup 2025 are formally recognized.