Tensions between the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) have escalated, with sources suggesting that Team India may decline to accept the Asia Cup trophy directly from the ACC president if they win the tournament final.
The controversy stems from growing friction over scheduling, revenue sharing, and the ACC’s stance on venues for regional tournaments. India had earlier expressed concerns about playing matches in certain locations due to security and logistical issues, which reportedly led to differences with the ACC’s top leadership.
According to sources close to the BCCI, players and officials feel that accepting the trophy from the current ACC president would send the wrong message, given the strained relations. “India has always respected the spirit of the game, but recent decisions by the ACC have not been in sync with our expectations,” a senior cricket administrator said.
The matter is said to be under internal discussion within the BCCI. One of the options being considered is for the team captain to lift the trophy independently or receive it from neutral tournament officials rather than from the ACC president.
The speculation has added a layer of political drama to the Asia Cup final, already a high-stakes encounter for cricket fans across the continent. Analysts say that while the decision would be symbolic, it could further strain ties between India and the ACC, potentially influencing future hosting rights and bilateral relations.
For now, Indian cricket fans are focused on the final match, but whispers of a possible snub at the presentation ceremony are keeping the spotlight firmly on the off-field dynamics.
