Asia Cup Final Ceremony Marred by Controversy as India Refuses to Receive Trophy from ACC President Mohsin Naqvi

Dubai: The post-match presentation of the **Asia Cup T20 2025 final** turned controversial after the Indian cricket team reportedly **refused to receive the trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Mohsin Naqvi**.

Despite defeating Pakistan by five wickets to lift the title for a record **ninth time**, the Indian team maintained its **stubborn stance**, which had already been evident throughout the tournament when players **avoided handshakes with Pakistani cricketers** and declined a customary pre-final photo-op between the two captains.

According to event host Simon Doull, the ACC informed him that the **Indian team would not be accepting the trophy on stage**. The refusal led to a delay in the ceremony, and eventually, the **trophy was taken back from the ground** without being presented.

Reports suggest that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had **formally communicated** its decision to the ACC ahead of the presentation, citing their reservations.

Sources said Naqvi, who also serves as **Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)**, stood firm and refused to hand the trophy over to any alternative official, resulting in an **unprecedented situation** where the champions left without a trophy presentation.

The incident has sparked **widespread criticism of India’s sportsmanship**, overshadowing what was a historic final — the **first-ever India-Pakistan clash in an Asia Cup final** in 41 years.