Mohsin Naqvi Keeps Asia Cup Trophy in Dubai, India Seeks ICC Action
The Asia Cup trophy, which the Indian team refused to accept from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chief Mohsin Naqvi, is now kept at the ACC’s headquarters in Dubai.
There are clear instructions that it should not be moved or given to anyone without the Chairman’s approval. After India defeated Pakistan in the Asia Cup final in Dubai on September 28, Naqvi, who is also the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman and Pakistan’s Interior Minister, took the trophy from the presentation ceremony because the Indian team did not want to accept it from him.
Asia Cup Trophy Held at ACC Dubai Headquarters
Tensions between India and Pakistan have risen after the Pahalgam terror attack. A source close to Naqvi said the trophy is still at the ACC office in Dubai, and he has specifically said it should not be handed over to anyone unless he is personally present. Naqvi has also said that he will give the trophy to the Indian team or the BCCI himself when the time comes.
“As of today the trophy is still in ACC offices in Dubai with clear instructions from Naqvi that it should not be moved or handed over to anyone without his approval and in person presence," a source close to Naqvi was quoted as saying to PTI.
“Naqvi has given clear instructions that only he will hand over the trophy in person to the Indian team or BCCI," the source added.
Asia Cup Trophy Row: Tensions Rise Between India and Pakistan
The Asia Cup was overshadowed by tensions between India and Pakistan. Indian players refused to shake hands with their Pakistani opponents during the tournament, and both teams made gestures that had political overtones. Naqvi also posted political statements on his social media accounts.
The BCCI was unhappy with Naqvi taking the trophy and plans to raise the matter at the ICC meeting next month. There is talk that serious action could be taken against him, possibly even removing him from his position as an ICC Director.
“It remains to be seen what will be the long term ramifications for the PCB or Naqvi because the BCCI is clear he (Naqvi) didn’t have any right to insist on handing the trophy himself to the Indian team and refusing to send it to the BCCI who were official hosts of the event," the source said.